A ferocious fire that ripped through the Wang Fuk Court public-housing complex in Tai Po over the past 24 hours has killed dozens and left hundreds unaccounted for, authorities and multiple news organisations reported on Thursday. Fire crews have largely contained the flames, but search-and-rescue operations continue amid growing alarm about how fast the blaze spread.
The Hong Kong Fire Services Department and hospital officials said the confirmed death toll has climbed rapidly as crews recovered victims from flats and common areas; press reports put the number of dead in the dozens, with some outlets reporting at least 75 and more recent tallies rising higher as rescue teams continued to work. Dozens of residents were also injured and many remain in hospital. Authorities gave the incident the highest alarm-rating and mobilised large numbers of firefighters and emergency vehicles.
Officials said the blaze began on Wednesday afternoon on the external scaffolding of one block undergoing renovation and spread quickly up the outside of the 30-plus-storey buildings, carried by plastic sheeting, bamboo scaffolding and possibly non-fire-retardant materials used in the works. Witness video and investigative reporting suggested the flames raced from floor to floor on the exterior before moving inside, trapping residents in upper flats and stairwells. Investigators have pointed to renovation materials and scaffolding as likely factors that accelerated the spread.
Police and emergency officials said hundreds of people remain unaccounted for; published estimates vary, with some outlets reporting roughly 250 people missing and others citing figures approaching 280. Shelters have been set up for the displaced and the government announced emergency relief measures while launching a criminal investigation into the renovation work.
On Thursday police announced arrests in connection with the fire, detaining senior figures from the renovation contractor on suspicion of gross negligence and manslaughter as part of a fast-moving probe. Authorities said those arrests reflected preliminary findings that unsafe practices and materials may have contributed to the catastrophe.
Firefighters said the main blazes were “under control” by Thursday evening, allowing crews to begin systematic searches of individual flats and to bring specialised teams into upper-storey areas previously too dangerous to enter. Yet officials warned the casualty figures could rise as crews reach areas that were until recently inaccessible. International and local media covering the scene described devastated corridors, burnt facades and distraught residents.
Hong Kong’s Chief Executive and senior mainland leaders extended condolences and promised a full inquiry; public anger and questions over building and renovation safety have mounted, with political implications as the city grapples with one of its deadliest peacetime fires in decades. Rescue and forensic teams will continue work through the night as authorities try to establish a definitive timeline and cause.
English