Massive Fire at Hong Kong High-Rise Kills 4, Leaves Others Trapped in Tai Po

At least four people have lost their lives in a massive fire that swept through a high-rise residential complex in Hong Kong. Authorities from the Fire Services Department and the government confirmed that several others remain trapped after flames erupted at the Wang Fuk Court housing estate in the Tai Po district.

Footage from the scene showed multiple nearby buildings burning at the same time. Fire officials say they are still unable to determine how many residents may still be inside. According to government updates, two people are in critical condition with severe burn injuries, while several others — including firefighters — have been hurt. Earlier, police reported eight injuries.

The South China Morning Post stated that four fatalities had been confirmed, one of them a firefighter, and that the blaze had spread to at least three residential blocks. RTHK also reported that two additional individuals were critically injured, citing police sources. Several firefighters were also injured as they attempted to contain the fire, which tore through the 31-storey towers that house around 2,000 flats.

The fire began at 2:51pm local time and quickly spread across bamboo scaffolding installed around the exterior of the buildings, according to reports. Fire crews have been seen tackling the intense flames from elevated ladder platforms, as thick grey smoke poured out of the complex.

Tai Po, located in northern Hong Kong near the Shenzhen border, commonly features bamboo scaffolding at construction sites. However, due to safety concerns, the government announced earlier this year plans to phase out its use in public projects.

Wang Fuk Court, part of the government’s subsidized home ownership scheme, has been occupied since 1983, according to its website.