HK Fire Tragedy: Death Toll Reaches 44, Hundreds Still Missing

In one of the deadliest fire disasters Hong Kong has witnessed since World War II, a massive blaze at a high-rise apartment complex in the Tai Po district has claimed 44 lives, while hundreds remain unaccounted for. Rescue teams continue large-scale operations, and officials fear the death toll may rise further.

The fire erupted on Wednesday afternoon in an eight-building residential complex comprising nearly 2,000 apartments. According to initial reports, the flames first broke out on the bamboo scaffolding surrounding several blocks of the Wang Fuk Court buildings, which were undergoing renovation. Within minutes, the fire intensified, spreading rapidly through construction netting and trapping residents inside.

Emergency services were alerted around 3 PM, following which the Fire Services Department and Police launched an extensive rescue mission. Thick smoke billowed from the burning towers as dozens of fire engines, ambulances, and rescue teams arrived at the scene.

Authorities deployed 128 fire trucks and 57 ambulances, along with hundreds of firefighters, paramedics, and police officers. Nearly 700 residents were evacuated and moved to temporary shelters. A casualty hotline and two emergency shelters were set up in nearby community centers to assist affected families.

While the exact cause of the blaze remains under investigation, officials confirmed that the fire originated on bamboo scaffolding. Preliminary findings suggest that highly flammable materials including bamboo poles and polystyrene foam may have accelerated the fire’s spread.

In connection with the incident, police have arrested three construction company executives on suspicion of manslaughter for negligence related to the use of unsafe construction materials.

Rescue efforts continue as the city braces for more grim updates in the aftermath of this historic tragedy.

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