Tragedy Strikes Hong Kong: Deadly Apartment Fires Leave 44 Dead

Thu Nov 27 2025 11:37:50 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A massive fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po district has resulted in at least 44 fatalities and hundreds missing. Investigations underway as authorities examine construction safety.

A catastrophic fire has swept through the Wang Fuk Court apartment complex in Hong Kong, resulting in at least 44 known deaths and an alarming number of missing residents. The incident, which unfolded in the Tai Po district, has been declared the deadliest in over sixty years for the city. Key aspects include the rapid spread of the fire, ongoing investigations leading to arrests of several construction firm directors, and concerns about the safety of traditional bamboo scaffolding used in the ongoing renovation of the buildings.

Tragedy Strikes Hong Kong: Deadly Apartment Fires Leave 44 Dead

A massive fire has engulfed several high-rise towers at the Wang Fuk Court housing complex in Hong Kong, leading to at least 44 deaths and more than 270 people reported missing. This marks the deadliest fire in the region in over 60 years. Thousands of residents have been forced into evacuation shelters as firefighters battle the relentless blaze.

Photos depict the sky filled with thick smoke, the towers ablaze, and firefighters working tirelessly to contain the fire which has engulfed seven of the eight tower blocks in the complex. Over 760 firefighters, supported by numerous fire engines and ambulances, were deployed to combat the flames that broke out around 14:51 local time on Wednesday.

Authorities have arrested three men in connection with allegations of manslaughter, prompting an investigation into the possible negligence regarding the safety measures taken during ongoing renovations.

Fire Origin and Growth

The fire originated in the Wang Fuk Court complex, a 31-storey residential development that houses nearly 4,600 residents. Built in 1983, the complex was under renovation and scaffolding could be seen engulfed by flames as residents reported that fire alarms failed to activate.

Investigators attributed the rapid spread of the fire to the presence of flammable materials, including polystyrene, used in the renovations, which exacerbated the situation considerably.

Death Toll and Casualties

The death toll has escalated alarmingly, with officials reporting a rise from 13 to 36 within hours of the incident, and local media later updating this figure to 44. Currently, 45 individuals are hospitalized in critical condition.

Emergency Response and Evacuation

In the aftermath, shelters have been established for the displaced residents, with reports indicating that at least 900 individuals are currently seeking refuge. Emergency services are actively working to support those affected, while a hotline has been set up by police to assist families seeking information about missing loved ones.

Investigations and Arrests

Three individuals have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter, including two construction firm directors and an engineering consultant. Investigators are scrutinizing the materials used in the renovations and potential negligence that may have contributed to the fire’s intensity and spread.

Bamboo Scaffolding: A Safety Concern

The incident has reignited discussions on the safety of bamboo scaffolding, a traditional construction method still prevalent in Hong Kong. Given recent safety concerns, officials have been contemplating phasing out bamboo in favor of metal alternatives.

This tragic event has prompted widespread mourning and calls for improved safety regulations in construction, emphasizing the urgent need for consistent oversight to prevent similar disasters in the future.