Hong Kong Massive Fire: 55 Dead, 279 Missing — Why Did the Blaze Spread So Fast?
A major tragedy has struck Hong Kong as a massive fire ripped through a residential housing complex, resulting in the deaths of 55 people while 279 remain missing. The incident has been described as one of the worst fires in Hong Kong in recent decades, creating fear and devastation across the city.
How the Fire Started
The fire originated on scaffolding outside a 32-storey building located in the Wong Fuk Court housing complex of Tai Po district in the New Territories. Initial flames rapidly climbed up the exterior of the building and jumped to neighboring towers.
Strong winds in the area made the situation even more dangerous, enabling the blaze to spread at an alarming speed.
The Housing Complex Details
Total 8 high-rise buildings
2,000 apartments
Approximately 4,800 residents
Built in the 1980s
Currently undergoing renovation work
The fire has already spread to 7 out of the 8 towers, forcing emergency evacuations throughout the complex.
Rescue & Casualty Information
As of the latest update:
- 55 people confirmed dead
- 62 injured with burns and respiratory injuries
- 279 residents missing
Rescue teams continue searching for survivors inside smoke-filled structures
Flames and heavy smoke are still visible from various floors, keeping the threat level extremely high.
What Caused the Rapid Spread?
Authorities suspect several building safety violations:
- Exterior walls reportedly contained non-fire-resistant materials
- Highly flammable Styrofoam discovered on walls during renovation
- Wind strengthened the fire’s spread across buildings
Officials said the fire behavior was “unusual and dangerously fast.”
Arrests Made
Senior Superintendent of Police Eileen Chung stated that the tragedy might be linked to construction company negligence.
Police arrested:
2 Company Directors (ages 52 & 68)
1 Engineering Consultant
They are accused of using unsafe building materials in renovation projects and failing to follow fire regulations.
Ongoing Emergency Response
Firefighters say four of the buildings have now been brought under control, but rescue and extinguishing operations are still active. The death toll may rise as search efforts continue.
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