Hong Kong, 26 November 2025 – One of the deadliest fires in Hong Kong’s history ripped through the Wang Fook Court residential complex in Tai Po on Wednesday afternoon, claiming at least 44 lives and leaving 279 people unaccounted for.
Kabul 24: The blaze broke out at 2:51 p.m. local time and rapidly escalated, reaching the highest alarm level (Level 5) by 6:22 p.m.
More than 760 firefighters, dozens of fire engines, and rescue helicopters were deployed to the scene. Dramatic footage showed towering flames and thick grey smoke billowing from multiple high-rise buildings, visible across large parts of the city.Police have arrested three men on suspicion of manslaughter in connection with the incident, and a full investigation has been launched.
Preliminary reports suggest the fire spread with terrifying speed, possibly fueled by extensive bamboo scaffolding that covered the exterior of the towers during renovation work.
Over 120 injured residents have been rushed to hospitals across Hong Kong, with 45 in critical condition. Among the confirmed dead is 37-year-old firefighter Ho Wai-ho, who lost contact with his team and was later found severely injured at the scene.Extreme heat and the constant threat of structural collapse have severely hampered rescue operations.
Authorities warn that some sections of the buildings remain at high risk of total collapse.Search and recovery efforts continue around the clock, but hopes of finding more survivors are fading fast.
This disaster marks the worst residential fire in Hong Kong since the 1996 Garley Building tragedy and has sent shockwaves through the community.
