The deadly fire engulfed the Wang Fuk Court high-rise complex, one of the tallest residential buildings in Hong Kong, with at least 36 people lost in the inferno. The blaze, which initially began at around 2:50 p.m., rapidly escalated to a No. 5 alarm, the highest severity rating in the city, by 6:22 p.m. The Fire Services Department confirmed that the incident began in the Wang Fuk Court, a high-rise residence in the Tai Po district, and that emergency services were promptly alerted.
Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee addressed reporters at a press conference, stating that 279 people were still missing and 29 had been hospitalized, including seven in critical condition. He also announced the formation of a dedicated investigation team to determine the cause of the disaster. Tang Ping-keung, Hong Kong’s secretary for security, confirmed the death of one firefighter, expressing his condolences to the family of the fallen officer.
Residents and officials described the chaos that unfolded during the fire. Chan Kwong-tak, an 83-year-old resident, noted that fire alarms failed to activate, leaving many unaware of the emergency despite the intense flames. Herman Yiu Kwan-ho, a former district councillor, added that people only became aware of the fire when a security guard knocked on their doors, giving them little time to evacuate.
The disaster has led to a massive response, with emergency services working tirelessly to rescue survivors and contain the blaze. Temporary shelters have been established for those displaced by the fire, including the Kwong Fuk Community Hall and the Tung Cheong Street Community Hall. Photos from the scene revealed the extent of the destruction, with thick, dark smoke pouring out of multiple floors and the bamboo scaffolding of the towers engulfed in flames.
The incident has raised serious questions about public safety and emergency preparedness. Authorities are now urgently reviewing the effectiveness of fire alarm systems and safety protocols in high-rise buildings. As investigations continue, the community mourns the lives lost and awaits further updates on the circumstances surrounding the incident.