Hong Kong High-Rise Fire Kills 36, Leaves 279 Missing in One of City’s Deadliest Blazes

A massive fire engulfed a high-rise residential complex in Hong Kong, killing at least 36 people. The blaze left 279 residents missing and prompted a large-scale rescue operation. The fire broke out Wednesday afternoon in the Tai Po district.

Hong Kong’s Chief Executive John Lee confirmed the casualties. Over 140 fire trucks and 60 ambulances were deployed to the scene. The fire continued to burn for hours, spreading across multiple buildings.

Rescue Operations Hampered by Falling Debris and Extreme Heat

The fire started at the external scaffolding of a 32-story building. Strong winds then spread the flames to inside the structure and nearby towers. The affected complex, Wang Fuk Court, consists of eight towers with nearly 2,000 flats.

Rescue crews faced significant challenges. Fire chiefs reported extremely high temperatures inside the buildings. Falling debris and scaffolding made firefighting and rescue operations dangerous and difficult.

According to the Associated Press, one firefighter was among the dead. At least 29 people were hospitalized, with seven in critical condition. The fire was only declared “coming under control” shortly after midnight.

Investigation Launched as Community Grapples with Aftermath

Authorities have launched a full investigation into the fire’s cause. Police and the Fire Services Department established a dedicated team. Three people have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter in connection with the blaze.

The tragedy has left many residents homeless. Tai Po district officials set up temporary shelters for those displaced. The complex was home to about 4,800 residents, including many elderly individuals.

Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed condolences for the victims. He offered sympathies to the families and called for all efforts to minimize casualties. The incident ranks among the deadliest fires in Hong Kong’s history.

The Hong Kong fire has raised serious questions about building safety and emergency response protocols in the densely populated city, with a community now mourning profound loss.

Info at your fingertips

What caused the Hong Kong residential fire?

The cause is under investigation. Officials believe it started on external scaffolding before spreading inside due to winds. A dedicated team is probing the exact origin.

How many people were injured in the blaze?

At least 29 people were hospitalized. Seven of them were reported to be in critical condition following the incident.

What made the rescue operation so difficult?

Firefighters faced extreme heat and falling debris. The high temperatures prevented crews from easily entering the buildings to conduct rescue efforts.

How many buildings were affected by the fire?

The blaze spread across seven high-rise buildings in the Wang Fuk Court complex. The entire estate consists of eight residential towers.

What assistance is available for displaced residents?

Temporary shelters have been set up by Tai Po district officials. These facilities provide for those left homeless by the disaster.