Blaze Engulfs Tai Po District Housing Estate
A catastrophic fire broke out Wednesday afternoon in the Wang Fuk Court apartment complex, located in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district. Authorities confirmed the death toll has risen to 36, with approximately 279 people still unaccounted for as emergency efforts continue.
The fire began around 3:00 p.m. local time and was rapidly elevated to a No. 5 alarm—the city’s highest fire emergency level. The scale of the response included more than 140 fire engines and over 800 personnel, including paramedics and drone teams.
Rescue Efforts and Rising Casualties
Despite intense efforts by emergency teams, dozens of fatalities were reported, and over two dozen individuals sustained injuries. Many of the wounded were transported to local hospitals for treatment.
One of the deceased was a firefighter, identified as 37-year-old Ho Wai-ho, who collapsed while responding to the emergency. He was transported to a hospital but did not survive.
Government Response and Condolences
Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee confirmed the rising death toll in a press briefing early Thursday. He stated that firefighting efforts were “gradually under control” and assured the public that emergency services have the necessary resources to contain the blaze.
In a social media statement, Lee expressed condolences to victims’ families and acknowledged the fallen firefighter’s sacrifice.
Security Secretary Tang Ping-keung noted that the city’s fire department is “doing its utmost” to control the situation. Chinese President Xi Jinping also issued a statement of sympathy, directing national agencies to assist with rescue and recovery operations and minimize further casualties.
Scope of the Disaster
Wang Fuk Court, a residential estate with approximately 2,000 apartments, sustained extensive damage. Flames and smoke could be seen engulfing bamboo scaffolding and entire sections of the high-rise buildings. Eyewitness reports described scenes of panic as residents attempted to flee the smoke-filled structures.
Ongoing Search and Relief Operations
Search and rescue teams continue working around the clock to locate those still missing. Authorities have not yet confirmed the cause of the fire. Relief efforts are underway for displaced residents, and investigations into the incident remain active.
Related Coverage
- Idaho News – https://idahonews.co/idaho-news-3/
- National News – https://idahonews.co/national-news/
- Global News – https://idahonews.co/global-news/
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