A devastating fire in a high-rise apartment complex in Hong Kong has claimed the lives of at least 94 individuals. Firefighters are diligently working to prevent any remaining embers from reigniting as the rescue efforts continue for those trapped or missing in what has been described as the deadliest fire in the city’s recent history.
Reports indicate that over 70 individuals, including 11 firefighters, sustained injuries during the incident. Approximately 900 people were evacuated to temporary shelters overnight for safety. Derek Armstrong Chan, the deputy director of Fire Services Operations, stated that the firefighting operation is nearly concluded, with focus on avoiding any potential flare-ups from debris and embers.
The residential complex, located in the Tai Po district and housing around 4,800 residents, was built in the 1980s and was undergoing renovations at the time of the fire. The blaze, believed to have started due to bamboo scaffolding and construction netting catching fire on November 26, rapidly spread across seven of the eight buildings in the complex, exacerbated by windy conditions.
Authorities have discovered that some exterior materials on the buildings did not meet fire resistance standards, facilitating the rapid spread of flames. Additionally, police found highly flammable plastic foam panels near the elevator lobby of an unaffected tower, suspected to have been installed by the construction company responsible for the renovations.
In connection to the tragedy, three individuals, including the directors and an engineering consultant of the construction company, have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter. Investigations are ongoing, with authorities emphasizing the need for strict adherence to safety standards in all renovation projects across housing estates to prevent similar incidents in the future.