A massive fire ripped through several residential towers in the Wang Fuk Court complex in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district on Wednesday afternoon. The blaze moved quickly through the high-rise buildings, catching many residents by surprise and trapping families inside their apartments.
Rising Death Toll
Emergency crews confirmed that more than 120 people have died so far. Hundreds of others remain unaccounted for, and officials fear the number of casualties will continue to rise as rescue teams search through damaged floors and collapsed stairwells. Dozens of survivors were taken to nearby hospitals with burns, smoke inhalation, and other injuries.
How the Fire Spread
Initial investigations indicate that the fire may have started on the exterior of one of the towers where scaffolding was in place for ongoing renovation work. The flames appear to have climbed the bamboo structure and spread into multiple floors. Officials also stated that some of the temporary construction materials may have been highly flammable.
Residents reported that alarms in many parts of the complex did not go off, leaving people unaware of the danger until smoke began pouring into hallways and staircases. Fire service officials later confirmed widespread alarm failures.
Arrests and Questions for Contractors
Police have arrested several individuals and their boss, linked to the renovation company responsible for the building work. Authorities are investigating whether safety rules were ignored or if illegal materials were used. Government officials have called the situation a case of possible gross negligence.
An urgent review of housing renovation sites across Hong Kong has now been ordered.
Stories of Survival and Loss
Residents described scenes of chaos as neighbors attempted to flee through dark, smoke-filled corridors. Some families were forced onto balconies to escape the heat. Others were rescued by firefighters who used ladders and cranes to reach trapped residents on the upper floors.
Community centers in the district have opened their doors to displaced residents. Many people have arrived with only the clothes they were wearing when the fire broke out.
Calls for Accountability
The fire has sparked anger across the city. Community groups, survivors, and local leaders are demanding stricter enforcement of building safety regulations and improved fire-prevention standards.
The tragedy has renewed concerns about overcrowded residential buildings and the risks involved when major renovations are carried out on occupied structures.
Authorities say search and recovery work will continue for several days as they work to identify victims and support affected families.
