At least four people have been killed in a huge fire that has engulfed multiple high-rise buildings in Hong Kong's Tai Po district. At least three more people are injured, with two in critical condition, according to a government statement. Concerns are rising that more residents may still be trapped inside.
Footage from the scene captures flames and billowing grey smoke coming from the Wang Fuk Court housing complex on Wednesday afternoon. The cause of the fire remains unknown, but it is believed to have spread quickly due to the bamboo scaffolding surrounding the buildings.
The fire department has confirmed one of the deceased is a firefighter, amidst reports of additional injuries. The blaze started around 14:51 local time and escalated to a level four alarm within 40 minutes, raising to the highest level five by 18:22.
As darkness fell, images revealed red flames engulfing several tower blocks, and many residents were transferred to hospitals for medical attention. Following assessments, officials stated that four people have died, with varying degrees of injuries reported.
Wang Fuk Court consists of eight tower blocks providing 1,984 apartments for nearly 4,000 residents. The buildings are currently undergoing renovations with bamboo scaffolding, a common practice in Hong Kong construction, though debates surrounding its safety continue to emerge. The community and local authorities face the challenge of dealing with both the immediate aftermath and the broader implications of this tragic event.
Footage from the scene captures flames and billowing grey smoke coming from the Wang Fuk Court housing complex on Wednesday afternoon. The cause of the fire remains unknown, but it is believed to have spread quickly due to the bamboo scaffolding surrounding the buildings.
The fire department has confirmed one of the deceased is a firefighter, amidst reports of additional injuries. The blaze started around 14:51 local time and escalated to a level four alarm within 40 minutes, raising to the highest level five by 18:22.
As darkness fell, images revealed red flames engulfing several tower blocks, and many residents were transferred to hospitals for medical attention. Following assessments, officials stated that four people have died, with varying degrees of injuries reported.
Wang Fuk Court consists of eight tower blocks providing 1,984 apartments for nearly 4,000 residents. The buildings are currently undergoing renovations with bamboo scaffolding, a common practice in Hong Kong construction, though debates surrounding its safety continue to emerge. The community and local authorities face the challenge of dealing with both the immediate aftermath and the broader implications of this tragic event.
