A massive blaze at Hong Kong’s Wang Fuk Court complex killed at least 36 people, with 29 hospitalized and over 279 missing, as authorities usher in investigations and Xi Jinping offers tributes.
Death Toll Climbs to 36
Official numbers report at least 36 fatalities, with 29 patients hospitalized and 279 people unaccounted for. Many of the injured are in critical condition.
Fire Now Under Control
Firefighters have brought the flames down to a manageable stage; however, the crash remains a tragic event of national concern.
Investigation Focuses on Polystyrene Panels
Fire chief Andy Yeung revealed that firefighters discovered windows covered with polystyrene sheets—highly flammable—across several units, which likely accelerated the spread.
Bamboo Scaffolding Cited as Possible Cause
Officials noted that bamboo scaffolds used during exterior renovations are a known fire risk and could have contributed to the outbreak, prompting a formal police inquiry.
One of Hong Kong’s Most Tragic Fires
The blaze struck Wang Fuk Court, a 40‑year‑old residential tower block with eight 31‑floor buildings housing nearly 2,000 apartments and around 4,500 residents. It marks the deadliest fire in Hong Kong’s recent history, the previous major threat occurring 17 years ago.