A massive fire in a large residential complex with eight buildings in Hong Kong’s northern district has claimed the lives of 94 people. According to the BBC, as of Friday morning the death toll had reached 94, while rescuers continue searching for hundreds of missing individuals.
The fire reportedly spread rapidly due to leftover flammable materials during maintenance work in the 31-storey residential blocks of Wang Fuk Court on Wednesday afternoon. Police have arrested three people on suspicion of “working with gross negligence.” They are being investigated after foam packaging was found near the site.
AFP journalists reported that although some flats were still burning, the intensity of the fire had begun to decrease. The fire burning through bamboo scaffolding created loud noises as smoke and ash rose high into the sky. A 65-year-old resident, Yuen, said many people realized the fire late because the windows had been closed for maintenance, and neighbors had to call them urging them to evacuate.
According to Hong Kong Fire Services Department Director Andy Yeung, one of the victims was a 37-year-old firefighter. He was found severely burned shortly after losing contact with his colleagues. A government spokesperson stated that 56 people are receiving treatment, several of whom are in critical condition.
City leader John Lee said that an initial estimate indicated about 279 people might be missing, and more than 900 residents had taken shelter in temporary facilities. However, rescue teams have been updating the missing persons list throughout the night, so the actual number has yet to be confirmed.
Fire Services Deputy Director Derek Armstrong Chan said that “the extreme heat at the site made it difficult to reach certain floors,” adding that rescue efforts would continue. He also noted the possibility that wind and falling debris may have caused the fire to spread from one block to another.
Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed condolences to the deceased and the injured, while city leader Lee said he was “deeply saddened” and assured that the affected residents would receive necessary assistance.
According to local media, some nearby blocks have also been evacuated. Sections of highways have been closed, and a large number of rescue personnel have been deployed. Although past decades saw frequent fires in Hong Kong’s densely populated areas, improved safety standards had reduced such risks — but this tragedy has once again plunged the city into mourning.
