HK residential fire deadliest in decades, death toll rises to 55

HONG KONG: A devastating fire in a residential complex in Hong Kong has claimed at least 55 lives, injured 100 others, while 279 people are still missing, authorities reported.

The blaze, which raged for 18 hours, has been described as the deadliest fire in the city in 63 years. The fire broke out at Wang Fuk Court, a housing complex comprising eight residential blocks with nearly 2,000 apartments, home to around 4,000 residents. Most of the buildings were constructed using wood and bamboo, which, along with plastic sheets, is being cited as a key factor in the rapid spread of the flames.

More than 1,200 firefighters participated in the operation, with teams working tirelessly to reach residents trapped on the upper floors. Dramatic rescue scenes unfolded as thick smoke billowed across the area, and debris rained down from the towers. Authorities report that over 45 people are in critical condition, while several remain trapped inside the building.

Over 900 people have been evacuated to temporary shelters as rescue efforts continue. Roads around the complex, including sections of the Tai Po Highway, were closed, and bus routes diverted to facilitate emergency operations.

Following the fire, three officials from construction companies responsible for the ongoing maintenance of the buildings have been arrested. Authorities are investigating the use of flammable construction materials, including bamboo scaffolding, wood, and plastic sheets, as possible contributors to the fire’s rapid spread.

The Chinese government, along with several major companies, has pledged millions of dollars in aid to support victims and their families.

The blaze began yesterday afternoon, reportedly igniting wooden scaffolding installed for construction purposes. It quickly engulfed three adjacent towers, prompting authorities to raise the alarm to Level 4 within minutes. Firefighters battled the flames from multiple angles, using powerful water jets to contain the inferno, which remained visible kilometers away.

Residents from neighboring buildings were evacuated, and emergency teams continue to search for those trapped. Officials have promised a full investigation into the cause once the building is secured.