A devastating fire has swept through several high-rise towers in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district, leaving families shattered and a community in shock. At least 44 people have lost their lives, and hundreds more are still missing as rescue teams battle to reach those trapped.
The fire broke out in the Wang Fuk Court housing complex on Wednesday afternoon, spreading rapidly through buildings that were under renovation. Residents described scenes of panic as smoke filled the corridors, elevators stopped working, and fire alarms reportedly failed to sound. Many of the people living in the estate are elderly, making evacuation even more difficult.
More than 760 firefighters were deployed as towering flames and thick grey smoke engulfed the skyline. Seven of the estate’s eight towers have been affected. Rescue efforts have been severely hampered by extreme heat and falling debris, with firefighters struggling to enter the upper floors of the 31-storey blocks.
Tragically, firefighter Ho Wai-ho, 37, was among those who died after losing contact with his team during the operation.
Authorities say materials found outside the buildings — including plastic sheets, mesh, and Styrofoam — may have accelerated the spread of the blaze. Three men have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter, and officials believe negligence played a major role in the disaster.
Hospitals across the city are treating dozens of injured residents, with many in serious condition. Temporary shelters were opened, though some had to be relocated due to the fire’s intensity. Throughout the night, families continued arriving at shelters, desperately searching for missing relatives.
The community remains surrounded by closed roads and diverted bus routes as the fire continues to burn. The true scale of the destruction has yet to be determined, but the emotional toll is already immense.