Some online rumors accused Chow of having compensated dating which led to the murder. In an open letter, Chow's family expressed "deep regret" and was heartbroken for the "untrue criticisms and excessive speculations" made by some media and online rumors.

"We hope that justice would not be affected by these untrue criticisms and speculations on the internet. People are indeed born good and justice will prevail," they wrote.

They also thanked the police for arresting the suspect, the public for the care shown to them as well as hotel staff for the assistance they offered. “We believe God is looking over us and the person who made the mistake will be taken to justice and pay the price of his wrongdoing,” they wrote.

“The past is gone. We hope everyone can wish Aqua rest in peace and finish the final chapter of her life peacefully,” they said.

Meanwhile, Chow's ex-boyfriend Alex Lo Chun-ming was charged for murdering Chow in a hotel room on the 106th floor of the five-star Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong on Austin Road West, Yau Ma Tei, between last Wednesday and Thursday.

No plea was taken yesterday before magistrate Andrew Mok Tze-chung at the Kowloon City Magistrates’ Court.

The prosecution applied for a 15-week adjournment pending the police’s further investigation, and Mok adjourned the case till October 17.

Without submitting a bail application, Lo will be remanded in jail custody until his next court appearance.