Death Toll Rises to 94 in Hong Kong’s Worst Fire Since 1948; Hundreds Still Missing
Hong Kong Tragedy: 94 Killed in Massive Fire, Hundreds Still Missing: A catastrophic fire at a residential complex in Tai Po, Hong Kong, has claimed at least 94 lives, with officials warning that the death toll may climb to 300 as rescue operations continue. More than 300 people remain missing, and seven skyscrapers have been completely gutted in what authorities are calling Hong Kong’s deadliest fire in over seven decades.
The blaze is believed to have started in bamboo scaffolding tied around a 1980-built building undergoing renovation. Fueled by strong winds, the flames rapidly spread to several adjacent high-rise towers housing more than 4,600 residents, many of them elderly.
Emergency services mounted the largest firefighting response in recent decades, deploying 140 fire engines and over 60 ambulances. Despite their efforts, the fire remains only partially under control. Tragically, one firefighter has died during the operation.
Authorities confirmed that 900 residents have been rescued and moved to safer locations. At least 45 people have been hospitalized with severe injuries, while 58 remain in critical condition.
Hong Kong police have arrested three employees of Prestige Construction and Engineering Co., including two directors and an engineering consultant, following an investigation into the cause of the blaze. The use of bamboo scaffolding—long a common practice in Hong Kong—has come under scrutiny, with officials urging a transition to metal alternatives for future construction and renovation projects.
A Level 5 emergency alert, the second highest in Hong Kong’s warning system, has been issued citywide. Temporary shelters have been set up at community centers and schools, and the government has arranged 1,400 temporary housing units for displaced families. Six nearby schools have been forced to close due to traffic and safety concerns.
Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee has announced a relief fund of HK$300 million to support victims and their families. Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and has called for full efforts to minimize further loss of life.
Local officials report that this disaster is the worst fire Hong Kong has experienced since 1948, marking a dark chapter in the city’s history as rescue teams continue to search through the charred remains of the scorched skyscrapers.
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