Tragic Fire in Hong Kong High-Rise Claims Lives and Leaves Many Missing

Fri Dec 05 2025 06:11:19 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a devastating fire at a Hong Kong public housing complex, families are left in anguish as loved ones remain unaccounted for, with 128 confirmed dead and nearly 300 still missing. Eyewitness accounts highlight the chaos and heartbreak of those trapped inside.

A massive fire engulfed multiple tower blocks at Wang Fuk Court in Hong Kong, leading to at least 128 fatalities and leaving nearly 300 residents missing. Survivors recount their frantic attempts to escape the inferno, sparking concerns over safety standards and the handling of the renovation that may have exacerbated the fire's spread. As hopes wane, families like that of Mr. Chung continue to wait for news of their loved ones amidst the ongoing tragedy.

Hang in there. These were the last words Mr. Chung spoke to his wife during a catastrophic fire at their high-rise public housing complex in Hong Kong's Tai Po district. At around 15:00 local time, during a frantic phone call, she expressed her fear and inability to escape with their cat.

The director's quick return home revealed the 31-story building engulfed in flames. Firefighters battled the blaze for nearly 24 hours, ultimately reporting at least 128 casualties, while still searching for close to 300 missing individuals, including Mr. Chung's wife.

Desperate residents shared their harrowing experiences as they awaited news, with many reporting no alarm sounded to alert them of the imminent danger. Mr. Chung spent a sleepless night outside, waiting for updates but receiving none from the fire service.

The smoke rapidly engulfed their 23rd-floor apartment, turning toxic within minutes, trapping his wife inside. As he feared the worst, he expressed his heartbreak, believing his wife perished alongside their beloved pet.

Amid this tragedy, suspicions grew over the high-rise's recent renovations which may have contributed to the flames’ rapid spread. Authorities have detained three executives from the construction company involved, pointing to negligence in using flammable materials.

Witness accounts from elderly residents further underscore the severity of the situation, as many were unable to escape due to mobility challenges. With social media filled with urgent pleas for news on missing family members, the emotional toll of this disaster weighs heavily on the community.

For families like the Chungs, uncertainty looms as they grapple with loss and the harsh realities of living in the aftermath of such a disaster. As they hope against hope for miraculous recoveries, discussions of municipal responsibility and safety standards promise potential ramifications for future housing projects.