Hong Kong witnessed one of its most devastating tragedies in recent decades as firefighters battled for two consecutive days against a massive blaze that engulfed the Wang Fuk Court apartment complex in Tai Po district. The death toll has climbed to 94 people, with many more still unaccounted for in what officials are calling a catastrophic disaster.
Rescue Operations Face Multiple Challenges
Firefighters encountered severe obstacles while trying to control the inferno that spread rapidly across seven of the estate's eight towers. Deputy director of Fire Services Operations Derek Armstrong Chan confirmed that the firefighting operation was nearly complete, but crews continued working to prevent debris and embers from flaring up.
Chan detailed the numerous hurdles faced by rescue teams, including the fire's rapid spread, the need to handle constant emergency calls, and dangerous conditions within the towers. Falling debris and collapsing bamboo scaffolding from upper floors created additional hazards, while emergency vehicles found themselves blocked by construction materials and collapsed structures.
The extreme heat and darkness within the buildings significantly hampered progress, forcing rescuers to navigate blackened corridors with limited visibility. Video footage from the scene showed firefighters working in heavily smoke-filled rooms as sparks continued to erupt from several windows.
Casualties and Ongoing Search Efforts
Authorities confirmed that at least 76 people were injured, including 11 firefighters who bravely fought the blaze. Medical officials reported that twelve survivors remain in critical condition, while 28 others are in serious condition.
As dawn broke on Friday, firefighters expressed hope that the blaze could be fully extinguished overnight, allowing for a comprehensive search of every flat to account for all missing persons. City leader John Lee revealed that contact had been lost with 279 people early Thursday, though firefighters later confirmed reaching some of them.
Investigation Launched Into Fire Causes
Preliminary investigations suggest the fire originated in bamboo scaffolding and plastic netting that wrapped around the buildings for major renovation work. Hong Kong's anti-corruption body has initiated a probe into the construction project, and police have arrested three men suspected of negligently leaving foam packaging on site.
Disturbing accounts from residents revealed that no fire alarms sounded during the initial outbreak. Instead, neighbors relied on knocking doors and personal warnings to alert each other. The government has announced plans for a full investigation and safety review of all estates currently undergoing repair work across Hong Kong.
The Wang Fuk Court fire stands as one of Hong Kong's deadliest disasters in recent memory, raising serious questions about construction safety protocols and emergency response measures in densely populated residential areas.
