A devastating fire broke out on Wednesday afternoon in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district, engulfing 7 out of 8 high-rise residential buildings in the Wang Fuk Court housing complex. Flames spread rapidly due to bamboo scaffolding and green construction netting covering the towers, fuelled by strong winds and flammable materials left during ongoing renovations.
A massive blaze tore through Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po on Wednesday, racing up bamboo scaffolding and spreading across seven of eight high-rise towers. Fire crews battled extreme heat and falling debris as residents were evacuated; hospitals treated dozens for… pic.twitter.com/kCyLhJ2Fzd
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Deadly Fire in Hong Kong
The blaze, the deadliest in Hong Kong in over 30 years, claimed at least 44 lives, including a 37-year-old firefighter who died during rescue operations. About 62 people were injured, and 100 residents remained missing, while over 900 sought refuge in temporary shelters. Authorities treated the fire as a top-tier Level 5 alarm incident.
3 Arrested in Hong Kong Fire Probe
3 men, including two directors and an engineering consultant from the construction company responsible for the renovations, were arrested on suspicion of manslaughter over allegations of gross negligence that allowed the fire to spread uncontrollably.
Firefighters deployed over 140 fire engines and 60 ambulances but faced hazardous conditions due to falling debris and intense heat, making rescue efforts difficult. Hospitals treated 56 people, with 16 in critical condition. City officials called for calm and announced investigations to determine the cause of the fire, along with support measures for the displaced community.
