A massive fire ripped through the Wang Fuk Court public-housing complex in Tai Po on Wednesday, producing one of Hong Kong’s deadliest blazes in decades. Officials say at least 44 people have died and 279 remain missing. Among the fatalities was a firefighter. Police have arrested three men on alleged manslaughter charges linked to the incident.
Wang Fuk Court consists of eight towers that together housed roughly 4,600 residents, according to the 2021 census. The blocks, built in 1983 and awaiting renovation, were covered in bamboo scaffolding when the fire broke out — a detail underscoring concerns about construction and maintenance practices at the site.
The blaze spread rapidly through the densely built neighborhood, forcing authorities to close nearby roads and reroute about 30 bus services. Flames and smoke crossed the road and reached Wong Shiu Chi Secondary School, about 500 yards from the complex.
Emergency crews evacuated and cared for survivors; roughly 1,000 displaced residents are being sheltered in community centers. Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee said police and fire services have set up a joint team to investigate the cause of the fire. Chinese leader Xi Jinping sent condolences to the families of victims.
Hong Kong has been phasing out traditional bamboo scaffolding in favor of steel frames since last year, citing lower fire risk for metal scaffolding. Wang Fuk Court had been scheduled for renovation when the blaze occurred, and investigators will be looking at the scaffolding, building condition and other factors as they seek to determine what happened.
Rescue and recovery work continues and officials warn casualty figures could change as searches proceed. Community groups and authorities are coordinating shelter, aid and information for affected residents while the investigation moves forward.