Hong Kong High-Rise Apartment Complex Engulfed in Flames: 36 Dead, 279 Missing So Far

According to Financial News, the death toll from the large-scale fire at a Hong Kong apartment complex on the 26th has risen to 36. The number of missing persons has reached triple digits, and the casualty count is expected to rise further.
On the 27th, international media outlets including the South China Morning Post (SCMP) and Associated Press (AP) reported that 36 people have died so far in the fire at the Wang Fuk Court high-rise apartment complex in Tai Po, northern Hong Kong.
John Lee, Chief Executive of Hong Kong, stated, "In addition to the fatalities, 29 people have been hospitalized with injuries. Seven of them are in critical condition, and the number of missing persons has reached 279."
Lee described the incident as a 'disaster' and explained that the flames are being brought under control in stages.
The affected apartment complex reportedly houses about 2,000 households, with approximately 4,800 residents. Around 900 evacuees have been accommodated in nine different shelters. Local broadcasters have reported that most of those remaining in the building are believed to be elderly.
The fire began at around 2:51 p.m. The exact cause has not yet been determined. At the time, the building had been undergoing major renovations for over a year, and the flames are believed to have spread rapidly due to bamboo scaffolding surrounding the structure.
Bamboo scaffolding, commonly used at construction sites in Hong Kong, is highly flammable. According to AP, the Hong Kong government announced earlier this year that it would gradually replace bamboo scaffolding with fire-resistant steel in public projects.
The Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF) has reportedly arrested three men in connection with the fire and is investigating the incident.
Xi Jinping, President of China, expressed condolences to the families of the fallen firefighters and victims, and urged efforts to minimize further damage, according to China Central Television (CCTV).


moon@fnnews.com Moon Young-jin Reporter