A devastating fire ripped through a high-rise residential building in Hong Kong on Wednesday morning, claiming 13 lives and leaving numerous people injured in one of the deadliest blazes the city has witnessed in recent years.
The Morning Inferno
The tragedy unfolded at No. 7 Hart Avenue in the bustling Tsim Sha Tsui district during the early hours of November 26, 2025. Firefighters received the first emergency call at approximately 7:53 AM local time and rushed multiple fire engines and ambulances to the scene.
Eyewitnesses described terrifying scenes as thick, black smoke billowed from multiple floors of the building, with residents screaming for help from windows. The fire reportedly started on one of the lower floors and rapidly spread upward, trapping many occupants inside their apartments.
Massive Rescue Operation
Hong Kong's Fire Services Department launched a massive rescue operation, deploying over 150 firefighters and 40 fire engines to battle the blaze. Firefighters used multiple aerial ladder platforms to reach people trapped on upper floors while simultaneously fighting the flames from inside the building.
Rescue teams worked tirelessly to evacuate residents, carrying some elderly and disabled individuals to safety. Ambulances transported the injured to nearby hospitals, including Queen Elizabeth Hospital and Kwong Wah Hospital, where emergency medical teams were placed on high alert.
The fire was eventually brought under control after several hours of intense firefighting efforts, but the extensive damage and high casualty count made this one of Hong Kong's most severe building fires in recent memory.
Aftermath and Investigation
As of the latest reports, 13 people have been confirmed dead and several others remain hospitalized with injuries ranging from smoke inhalation to burns. The exact number of injured continues to be assessed as medical teams work through the night.
Authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation to determine the cause of the fire. Preliminary reports suggest the blaze might have originated from an electrical fault, though officials emphasize that all possibilities are being examined.
The tragedy has raised serious questions about fire safety measures in Hong Kong's densely populated urban areas, particularly in older high-rise buildings. Building management and fire safety protocols are expected to come under intense scrutiny in the coming days.
Hong Kong Chief Executive expressed deep sorrow over the incident and promised a thorough investigation while extending condolences to the families of the victims. The government has established emergency assistance centers to help affected residents with temporary accommodation and support services.
