Hong Kong High-Rise Inferno Leaves 44 Dead as Search for Hundreds Continues

A towering blaze that ripped through a residential complex in Hong Kong has turned into a national tragedy, claiming 44 lives and leaving nearly 300 people missing. Though firefighters have managed to contain flames in several buildings, smoke is still leaking from others, slowing down rescue efforts on Thursday.

Early investigations suggest the fire spread rapidly due to hazardous scaffolding and flammable foam materials used during maintenance work. Many residents remain stuck on upper floors, where suffocating smoke and dangerous heat have made entry nearly impossible. Falling debris and collapsing structures have also put rescue teams at heightened risk.

Police have arrested three people on suspicion of manslaughter after finding signs of serious negligence, including sealed windows and non-compliant construction materials.

Security officials described the fire as highly unusual, noting that the exterior coverings ignited faster and more fiercely than expected. The disaster unfolded at the crowded Wang Fuk Court housing complex in Tai Po, home to around 5,000 residents.

Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed condolences to the victims’ families and urged authorities to do everything possible to extinguish the fire and rescue those still trapped. His message also honored a 37-year-old firefighter who lost his life in the operation.