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A massive blaze tore through a residential complex in Hong Kong's Tai Po district on Wednesday, 26 November, killing at least 44 people
According to SCMP, the fire erupted at the Wang Fuk Court housing complex at around 3pm on Wednesday afternoon. It was raised to a Level 5 alarm — the highest level of severity — by the fire department by 6pm.
The flames quickly grew into an inferno, engulfing seven of the development's eight tower blocks, home to almost 2,000 apartments.
More than 760 firefighters were deployed to tackle the blaze. However, officers at the scene said rescue work has been challenging due to the intense heat.
Harrowing images showed the 32-storey towers consumed by fire, with thick grey smoke billowing over the city skyline.
Wang Fuk Court, built in 1983, was reportedly undergoing renovation. Footage from the scene showed bamboo scaffolding surrounding the towers and burning green scaffolding mesh falling to the ground.
As of 6am today, 27 November, the fire at four of the seven affected blocks have been brought under control
Hong Kong authorities said at least 44 people, including a firefighter, have died, with many others injured and 45 in critical condition.
Some 279 residents are still missing, although the true number remains unclear as some were reportedly trapped inside the buildings and most of the occupants are elderly.
According to a preliminary investigation, officers discovered unsafe scaffolding and foam materials used during renovation, which authorities said accelerated the spread of the fire through corridors and into individual flats.
Hong Kong authorities have vowed to launch a full-scale investigation, including criminal probes, into the deadly fire
Three people — two company directors and a consultant linked to the renovation works — have been arrested for gross negligence.
They are accused of using non-compliant scaffolding materials and sealing windows with styrofoam, which allegedly contributed to the rapid spread of the blaze.
Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee has described the fire as a "massive catastrophe", while China President Xi Jinping has extended his condolences to the victims.
