Hong Kong High-Rise Fire in Tai Po Kills Dozens, Hundreds Missing
Hong Kong High-Rise Fire in Tai Po Kills Dozens, Hundreds Missing
A massive five-alarm blaze tore through Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, destroying eight towers and leaving dozens dead as hundreds remain unaccounted.
A massive five-alarm blaze tore through Wang Fuk Court, an eight-tower residential estate in Tai Po. By Thursday morning, officials said the death toll had risen to 44, with 45 in critical condition and hundreds reported missing as firefighters fought the flames ripping through eight 31-storey towers. The fire forced a city-wide emergency response and drew residents from nearby streets.
The estate contains about 2,000 flats and around 4,800 residents. The towers, each 31 storeys tall, were undergoing maintenance when the fire broke out, with bamboo scaffolding visible on several blocks.
Authorities deployed about 128 fire engines and nearly 800 firefighters to the scene, declaring the fire a five-alarm emergency—the highest rating. Roads near the towers were closed as teams worked to reach residents trapped inside.
A task force was formed to investigate the cause, and three men aged 52 to 68 were arrested on suspicion of manslaughter in connection with the blaze.
City leader John Lee said the blaze was 'coming under control' in the early hours, while officials cautioned that the temperature inside the buildings remained extremely high, complicating entry and rescue operations.
Videos and witness accounts showed flames spreading across floors; residents gathered outside in shock, with some recalling elderly neighbors unable to evacuate.
Officials emphasized that the priority remained extinguishing the fire, rescuing those trapped, and later supporting the injured before a full investigation unfolds.
Cover image source: Huge Fire Engulfs Apartment Buildings in Hong Kong 🔗
