Hong Kong, China – The Hong Kong Fire Services Department announced today that the death toll from a massive fire in a residential complex in the Tai Po area has tragically risen to 128. The blaze, which engulfed a large housing estate in the northern part of the city, has also left scores injured and many still unaccounted for.
According to officials, at least 79 people sustained injuries, including 12 firefighters who were involved in the rescue operations. Concerns are mounting as approximately 200 individuals remain missing, fueling fears that the final death toll may climb even higher. Initial investigations suggest that fire alarms within the affected buildings were not functioning correctly, potentially contributing to the scale of the disaster.
Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee stated that firefighters successfully rescued 55 people from the scene of the fire. He added that the government has established nine shelters to house more than 500 residents displaced by the devastating incident. These shelters are providing temporary accommodation and support to those who have lost their homes and belongings.
The fire reportedly broke out in the Wang Fuk Estate, a complex consisting of eight buildings and housing approximately two thousand residential units. The Fire Services Department received initial reports of the blaze on Wednesday, prompting a large-scale emergency response. Authorities are now focused on investigating the cause of the fire and assessing the full extent of the damage. The incident has triggered a wave of grief and concern across Hong Kong, prompting calls for a thorough review of fire safety regulations in residential buildings.
This is a developing story, and DZWatch will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
