Hong Kong Firefighters Conclude Search After Tower Blaze Claims 94 Lives
Hong Kong firefighters have concluded their search in the tragic aftermath of a devastating blaze that claimed at least 94 lives. This incident has been recorded as one of the deadliest fires in the city’s history, particularly affecting the Wang Fuk Court complex in Tai Po.
Fire Incident Overview
The fire erupted on Wednesday afternoon in one of the eight towers at the Wang Fuk Court complex. The flames rapidly spread, engulfing seven of the buildings due to bamboo scaffolding used for renovations that caught fire. It took more than 1,000 firefighters approximately 24 hours to bring the five-alarm fire under control.
Casualties and Injuries
As the situation unfolded, reports noted that over 70 people suffered injuries, including 11 firefighters. Furthermore, around 900 survivors are now residing in temporary shelters, as the community comes to grips with the tragedy.
Search and Rescue Operations
- Completion of search expected late Friday.
- 279 residents initially reported missing.
- 25 unanswered rescue calls received, primarily from higher floors.
Firefighters prioritized areas from which they received multiple calls for assistance but were unable to reach due to the spreading flames. Officials have yet to determine how many residents are still unaccounted for, as the complex houses nearly 2,000 apartments and approximately 4,800 residents.
Investigation into Renovation Practices
Authorities are investigating potential corruption associated with the renovation project ongoing at the complex. Three individuals, including directors and an engineering consultant of the involved construction company, have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter and gross negligence. Police have also seized multiple documents from Prestige Construction & Engineering Company, which was responsible for the renovations.
Safety Concerns
Investigators have raised alarms regarding the materials used in the renovation, suspecting that some exterior wall materials did not comply with fire resistance standards, which may have facilitated the rapid fire spread. Additionally, plastic foam panels, known for their flammability, were found near the elevator lobby of the unaffected tower.
Historical Context
This fire marks the deadliest incident of its kind in Hong Kong in many years, overshadowing a tragic fire in 1996 in Kowloon that resulted in 41 fatalities. Authorities are now planning inspections of housing estates undergoing major renovations to ensure compliance with safety standards moving forward.
