Tragic Fire in Hong Kong: Hundreds Missing After Deadly Blaze

Fri Dec 05 2025 06:13:04 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A massive fire in Hong Kong's Wang Fuk Court has led to dozens of fatalities and many missing persons. Investigations are underway as the community grapples with the aftermath.

In a catastrophic incident, a fire has engulfed several high-rise residential buildings in Hong Kong, leaving at least 65 dead and hundreds missing. The authorities are conducting investigations into the causes and accountability surrounding the fire, especially concerning ongoing renovations that may have contributed to its rapid spread. The community is left in shock and mourning as rescue efforts continue amid dangerous conditions.

Firefighters are still searching for hundreds of missing people after a massive fire tore through multiple high-rise residential buildings in Hong Kong.

At least 65 people died in the blaze - the city's deadliest in more than 70 years - at Wang Fuk Court's complex, which is home to thousands.

The tower blocks had been undergoing extensive renovations - and while the exact cause for the fire is unclear, police say materials on the outside of the buildings may have facilitated its spread.

Three construction company executives have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter and gross negligence, and Hong Kong's chief executive John Lee has vowed to launch a comprehensive investigation.

The fire, which tore through seven of eight tower blocks in Tai Po district, is now basically under control, according to officials.

It started at 14:51 local time on Wednesday, with flames and thick clouds of smoke visible for miles. By evening, the situation escalated, and the fire reached the highest alert level.

Sadly, Firefighter Ho Wai-ho was among those killed in the incident, alongside several others who are being treated for injuries. More than 270 individuals remain unaccounted for.

As the community processes the tragedy, questions regarding fire safety compliance during recent renovations have emerged, leading to calls for accountability among the responsible construction firms.

Hong Kong's chief executive has initiated inspections of ongoing renovation sites to ensure safety standards are met.

This disaster brings to light the essential need for stringent safety protocols, particularly in high-rise buildings known for their vulnerability to fire hazards.