The death toll from Hong Kong’s deadliest fire in nearly eight decades has risen to 128, while around 200 residents remain missing from the high-rise Wang Fuk Court complex in Tai Po.
The fire, which started on Wednesday afternoon, spread rapidly across eight 32-storey towers under renovation, fueled by bamboo scaffolding wrapped in green mesh, leaving families desperate for news of loved ones.
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Authorities revealed that only 39 of the 128 victims have been identified, and fire alarms in the complex were reportedly malfunctioning, raising questions about safety compliance during the ongoing renovation work.
Police arrested three officials from Prestige Construction on suspicion of manslaughter, accusing them of gross negligence and using unsafe, flammable materials that contributed to the fire’s rapid and deadly spread.
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Rescue teams concluded operations after firefighters brought the blaze under control, with at least 79 people, including 12 firefighters, injured. Families continue to review photos of victims in hopes of identifying the missing.
Hong Kong’s government announced a HK$300 million fund to support affected residents, while volunteers provided temporary shelter and supplies to evacuees, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian response in one of the city’s most densely populated areas.