Tai Po, Hong Kong: A ferocious fire that erupted yesterday in a densely packed residential complex has claimed at least 44 lives, including a firefighter, and left 279 people unaccounted for, marking the city’s deadliest inferno in nearly three decades.
The blaze tore through seven of eight 32-storey towers at Wang Fuk Court in the northern Tai Po district, starting around 2:50 p.m. local time. Flames, fueled by flammable bamboo scaffolding and substandard polystyrene foam used in renovations, spread rapidly, billowing thick black smoke across the skyline and trapping residents on upper floors.cc84bf0afb87
Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee called it a “massive catastrophe,” declaring a No. 5 alarm—the highest level. Over 900 residents were evacuated, with 45 hospitalized in serious condition. Rescue teams, battling falling debris and intense heat, began searching lower floors today, aided by 26 units and drones.
Police arrested three construction firm executives on manslaughter charges, citing “gross negligence” in using non-fireproof materials.01511b Chinese President Xi Jinping offered condolences and 2 million yuan ($282,000) in aid.
As searches continue amid smoldering ruins, questions swirl over building safety regulations. Officials vow spot checks on similar sites. Families cling to hope, but the toll rises.