Hong Kong authorities have confirmed that the death toll from the catastrophic fire at the Wang Fuk Court housing complex has risen to 128, with around 200 people still missing, marking the city’s deadliest fire in nearly 80 years. Rescue operations concluded on Friday, although officials warn that more victims may be found as investigations continue.
Fire Alarms Failed as Raging Blaze Engulfs Seven Towers
The blaze erupted on Wednesday afternoon in the Tai Po district, sweeping through seven of the eight 32-storey residential blocks within minutes. Hong Kong Security Chief Chris Tang revealed at a press conference that fire alarms were not functioning properly, a failure that may have contributed to the rapid spread of the fire and the high number of casualties.
“We cannot rule out the discovery of more bodies once police enter the building for detailed investigations,” Tang said.
At least 79 people, including 12 firefighters, were injured. The complex, home to over 4,600 residents, had been covered in bamboo scaffolding and green protective mesh due to ongoing renovation works—materials now under scrutiny for possibly accelerating the blaze.
Families Grieve as Identification Continues; Only 39 Victims Confirmed
Heartbroken families lined up to view photos of unidentified victims. Only 39 of the 128 bodies have been identified so far.
Mirra Wong, still searching for her father, said she recognized an image that “might be his body,” but his remains remain officially unconfirmed.
Another resident described the anguish of waiting for news:
“Rationally speaking, it means there’s no hope. But the bodies still have to be found. It’s too sorrowful.”
Residents stood before the charred ruins, laying flowers and mourning the loss of their homes and loved ones. “My home is probably gone now,” said Miss Yu, her voice breaking. “When I look in that direction, my heart feels so heavy.”
Investigation Points to Unsafe Renovation Practices; Three Arrested
Authorities revealed that residents repeatedly complained about fire hazards last year, particularly the flammability of the green mesh and materials used during renovations. The Labour Department acknowledged residents had raised concerns as early as September 2024.
Police have arrested three individuals — two directors and an engineering consultant from Prestige Construction, the firm handling maintenance at Wang Fuk Court — on suspicion of manslaughter. They are accused of using unsafe materials, including flammable foam boards that allegedly blocked building windows.
Prestige Construction has not responded to calls for comment. The tragedy has renewed calls to replace traditional bamboo scaffolding with metal structures, which offer greater fire resistance.
Domestic Workers Among the Missing; Aid Efforts Surge
The fire also affected Hong Kong’s large migrant workforce. At least 19 Filipino domestic workers are missing, while two Indonesian helpers were confirmed dead. The city is home to more than 368,000 domestic workers, most of whom live inside the high-rise apartments they serve.
In response, hundreds of volunteers have launched community aid efforts, distributing food, diapers, blankets, and essentials at makeshift support centers near the burnt complex. “This is real civil participation,” said Helena, a 22-year-old volunteer coordinator.
Government Announces Relief Fund as Tragedy Fuels Public Anger
Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee announced a HK$300 million (USD $39 million) relief fund for displaced residents. Several major Chinese companies have also pledged donations.
The fire — the worst since 1948, when 176 people died in a warehouse blaze — has triggered comparisons to the Grenfell Tower disaster in London. Analysts warn it may intensify discontent in a city already strained by sky-high housing prices, overcrowded living conditions, and political tensions.
Both Hong Kong officials and Beijing’s leadership have moved swiftly to signal that they view the tragedy as a critical test of governance and public confidence.
