In a tragic incident that has shocked Hong Kong, a devastating fire at the Wang Fuk Court residential complex has claimed at least 83 lives, with many more still missing. Amidst the grim recovery efforts, a glimmer of hope emerged as firefighters rescued a survivor nearly a full day after the blaze began.
A Miraculous Rescue Amidst the Tragedy
Firefighters battling the inferno at Wang Tao House made a remarkable discovery on Thursday, November 27, 2025. They found and rescued a man from a stairway on the 16th floor, almost 24 hours after the massive fire first broke out. The identity of this survivor is not yet known. This rescue operation provided a rare moment of hope in what has become one of Hong Kong's deadliest disasters.
Rising Casualties and a Nation in Mourning
The scale of the tragedy continues to grow. The official death toll has now reached 83, and authorities have reported that over 280 people remain missing. The number of injured stands at 76, with 15 in critical condition and 28 listed as serious. The human cost of the fire is immense and deeply personal. Among the victims was a brave firefighter who lost his life in the line of duty.
Heartbreaking stories are emerging from the scene. One woman, desperately searching for her family, told media, "My baby is dead. I am the mum who keeps posting non-stop on social media trying to find my baby." She added that she could not locate her father-in-law or mother-in-law either. Firefighters confirmed they discovered a baby and an adult with no signs of life in one flat. Another distraught woman was seen carrying her daughter's graduation photograph, searching for her child and the child's father outside a temporary shelter.
Investigation and Response Underway
The fire, which started on Wednesday, rapidly spread across seven of the complex's eight buildings. While the exact cause is still unknown and a criminal investigation is ongoing, initial reports suggest the blaze began on scaffolding surrounding the towers. Video evidence showed flames leaping from at least two towers that were covered in green construction mesh.
In response to the catastrophe, the architectural consultancy firm involved, Will Power Architects, has expressed deep sorrow. The firm has pledged its full cooperation with the police, the Fire Services Department, and the Housing Department’s Independent Checking Unit by providing all necessary building plans and professional data. They have also committed to assisting with the estate’s restoration but are refraining from further public comment to preserve the integrity of the official investigation.
As firefighters continue their efforts to fully extinguish the blaze for a second day, the community is reeling. Residents are being housed in temporary shelters set up near the fire scene in the Tai Po district, as the city comes to terms with this profound loss.
