Hong Kong’s Deadliest Blaze in Decades Kills at Least 94, Scores Missing
Hong Kong is reeling from its worst fire disaster in nearly eight decades, with at least 94 people confirmed dead and dozens still unaccounted for after a massive blaze tore through a high-rise apartment complex. The fire, which started on Wednesday in the northern district of Tai Po, spread rapidly across multiple buildings, trapping residents and overwhelming emergency services. As rescue teams wrap up their searches, families gather at makeshift centres to identify loved ones, while authorities probe possible negligence linked to ongoing renovation work.
The tragedy has sparked widespread grief and calls for stricter safety measures in one of the world’s most densely populated cities. City leaders have pledged support for victims, but questions linger over how such a deadly inferno could occur despite modern building standards.
The Outbreak and Spread of the Fire
The blaze erupted at Wang Fuk Court, a large public housing estate with eight blocks and close to 2,000 flats. Home to thousands of residents, including families and migrant workers, the complex was undergoing major renovations at the time. Witnesses described flames starting in one building before strong winds carried embers and debris to nearby structures, causing the fire to engulf four blocks in total.
Firefighters battled the flames for over 36 hours, finally containing them by Friday morning. Thick smoke and occasional sparks continued to rise from the site, forcing crews to douse the buildings with water to prevent re-ignition. Investigators believe bamboo scaffolding and plastic mesh used in the renovations may have fuelled the rapid spread. Plastic foam packaging left negligently at the site is also under scrutiny, leading to the arrest of three men suspected of contributing to the disaster.
Wind played a key role, with gusts pushing burning materials across the estate. One resident recalled the chaos: “The fire spread so quickly. I saw one hose trying to save several buildings, and I felt it was far too slow.” Another survivor described frantic efforts to alert neighbours: “Ringing doorbells, knocking on doors, alerting the neighbours, telling them to leave – that’s what the situation was like.”
Casualties and the Human Toll
As of early Friday, the death toll stood at 94, including a 37-year-old firefighter who lost his life during rescue operations, and two Indonesian migrant domestic workers. More than 76 people have been injured, with 12 in critical condition and 28 listed as serious. Among the wounded are 11 firefighters who risked their lives to save others.
Scores of people remain missing, with initial reports from city leader John Lee indicating 279 unaccounted for in the early hours of Thursday. While some have since been contacted, authorities have not released an updated figure, leaving families in anguish. At a nearby community centre, police displayed photos of bodies and personal items to help with identification. One distraught relative shared her pain: “If the faces are unrecognisable, there are personal items for people to identify. I cannot describe my feelings. There were children.”
The victims include people from all walks of life, highlighting the diverse community in Hong Kong’s public housing. The loss has hit hard, with volunteers setting up aid stations to provide clothes, food, and support. A local organiser noted the community’s spirit: “It’s truly touching. The spirit of Hong Kong people is that when one is in trouble, everyone lends support… It shows that Hong Kong people are full of love.”
Emergency Response and Rescue Operations
Fire services launched a massive operation, deploying hundreds of personnel to search every flat in the affected blocks. By Friday, they had resolved most calls for help but were still addressing 25 outstanding requests. Teams planned to break into all remaining units by 9 am local time to ensure no one was left behind.
Deputy director of fire services Derek Armstrong Chan confirmed the focus on thorough searches: “Firefighters will conduct search and rescue for 25 requests and break into all flats by 9 am.” Some residents from adjacent blocks were allowed to return home on Thursday afternoon, but many others remain displaced.
The government has stepped in with immediate aid, opening nine shelters and arranging temporary housing. A HK$300 million (about 38.5 million US dollars) fund has been set up to assist victims with emergency needs. Activities related to the upcoming legislative elections on December 7 have been suspended to allow full focus on the crisis.
Investigations and Calls for Accountability
Police and fire officials are probing the exact cause, with early evidence pointing to “gross negligence” by a construction firm involved in the renovations. Hong Kong’s anti-corruption body has launched a separate inquiry into the work, examining contracts and safety protocols.
Number-two official Eric Chan stressed the need for change: “It is imperative to expedite the full transition to metal scaffolding.” Authorities have ordered immediate inspections of all housing estates undergoing similar major works to prevent future tragedies.
This fire has intensified scrutiny over missed warnings and building safety in Hong Kong. While deadly blazes were common in the past, especially in poorer areas, improved regulations had made them rare. The last comparable disaster was in 1948, when an explosion and fire claimed at least 135 lives.
🔴Central News Weekly Edition | Issue 119 Download the Latest Print and E-Edition | Jacob Zuma Welcomes TonyYengeni to MK Party as Second Deputy President in Major Leadership Shake-Up🔴
Download Here:
Direct PDF File Here:
https://centralnews.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Central-News-Issue-114-1.pdf
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info: info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube