A massive and devastating fire continued to burn through a high-rise housing complex in Hong Kong on Thursday, killing at least 55 people and leaving hundreds more missing, authorities confirmed. The tragedy is now considered the city’s worst fire disaster in decades.
The blaze began on Wednesday afternoon at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, a densely populated eight-building residential estate with around 2,000 apartments. The inferno spread rapidly, sending shockwaves across a city known for its towering residential structures.
According to police, three men have been arrested for leaving flammable materials at the site during maintenance work, which allegedly caused the fire to spread uncontrollably. Investigators seized documents from another location on Thursday as part of the probe. Police believe the suspects acted with “gross negligence”.
Even at daybreak on Thursday, AFP reporters observed several flats still burning, though the intensity had reduced since the night. The fire initially erupted on bamboo scaffolding attached to multiple 31-storey towers undergoing repair work.
Residents described terrifying scenes of thick black smoke, burning bamboo, and flames shooting into the sky. Many elderly residents, who have lived in the estate for decades, struggled to evacuate due to mobility issues and sealed windows during maintenance work.
Hong Kong Fire: High Casualties and Injuries
Hong Kong’s fire department confirmed 44 deaths, including a 37-year-old firefighter who lost contact with colleagues and was later found with severe burns. Hospitals are treating 56 people — 16 in critical condition, 24 serious, and 16 stable.
Chief Executive John Lee initially said 279 people were unaccounted for, though authorities have since made contact with some of them. More than 900 residents have taken refuge at temporary shelters as uncertainty and fear grip the area.
Fire officials say extreme temperatures and structural risks have prevented rescue teams from reaching people who called for help from inside the buildings. The fire reportedly spread between blocks due to wind and falling debris.
Government Response
Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed condolences to the victims and praised the firefighter who died in service. Lee said the government is “deeply saddened” and working to support affected families.
Residents described the situation as “heartbreaking”, with many fearing for their homes and the safety of their loved ones. Evacuations continued through the night, with nearby roads and highways closed to facilitate firefighting.
Although Hong Kong once frequently suffered deadly fires in older, congested districts, improved safety standards had made such large-scale tragedies rare — until now.
