At least 44 people have died and hundreds remain unaccounted for after a catastrophic fire tore through multiple high-rise buildings in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district. Officials confirmed that 279 residents are still missing, with emergency teams racing to find survivors.
The massive blaze erupted at the Wang Fuk Court housing complex on Wednesday afternoon, quickly engulfing several of the estate’s 31-storey towers. More than 760 firefighters were deployed as flames and thick grey smoke dominated the skyline.
Three Arrested as Manslaughter Probe Begins
Local media reported that three men have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter, with authorities launching a full investigation into the cause of the fire. Hong Kong’s Security Secretary Chris Tang said preliminary findings show the rapid spread of the flames was “suspicious,” including the use of polystyrene to seal windows.
Fire Spread Rapidly Due to Bamboo Scaffolding
The fire began at 14:51 local time (06:51 GMT) and reached level five severity—the highest classification—by 18:22.
Officials believe the blaze intensified due to the bamboo scaffolding surrounding the buildings undergoing renovation. This traditional style of scaffolding is still widely used in Hong Kong, despite recent calls to shift to metal alternatives for safety reasons.
Dozens Injured; Firefighter Among the Dead
At least 45 people are in serious condition across several hospitals.
Among the dead is 37-year-old firefighter Ho Wai-ho, who collapsed inside the smoke-filled structure after contact was lost for over 30 minutes.
Hong Kong’s Chief Executive offered condolences, saying the government would provide “all possible support” to victims and their families.
Rescue Efforts Hampered by Extreme Heat and Debris
Deputy Fire Services Director Derek Armstrong Chan said rescue teams are facing intense heat and hazardous conditions:
“The temperature inside the buildings is extremely high. It is difficult for us to enter the upper floors for firefighting and search operations.”
The fire remains uncontained, and authorities cannot confirm when it will be fully extinguished.
Residents Report Alarm Failures and Difficult Evacuation
Wang Fuk Court, built in 1983, includes eight tower blocks housing over 4,600 residents. Seven of these buildings have been heavily affected.
Residents told local media that:
- Fire alarms failed to activate
- Elevators stopped working, trapping elderly residents
- Explosions were heard from inside the buildings
- Fire hoses could not reach upper floors
Many of the complex’s residents are elderly, adding to evacuation challenges.
Evacuation Zone Expanded as Roads Shut Down
Police evacuated nearby buildings and opened several temporary shelters. One shelter had to be closed when the fire grew too intense, forcing evacuees to relocate. Authorities say it is still unclear how many people are missing as families continue to report loved ones unaccounted for.
A large evacuation zone is now in place, with road closures and more than 30 bus routes diverted, according to the Transport Department.
China’s President Expresses Condolences
Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed sympathy for the victims and called for “every effort” to minimize further losses, according to state media.
The incident marks Hong Kong’s first level five fire in 17 years. The last occurred in 2007, when a blaze at Cornwall Court killed four people.
