Fire Rips Through Hong Kong High-Rise

A devastating fire in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district has killed at least 44 people, with 279 residents still unaccounted for, as emergency crews continue overnight rescue operations.

More than 800 firefighters have been battling the blaze at the Wang Fuk Court housing complex. Authorities say the fire is now under control in four of the eight apartment blocks, but intense flames and heavy smoke continue to hamper access to the remaining buildings.

The incident has been declared a Level Five fire — Hong Kong’s highest emergency rating.

Local media report that a baby and an elderly woman have been pulled from the building alive, while dozens more remain trapped or missing.

Police have arrested three construction company executives on suspicion of manslaughter amid concerns that flammable materials used during renovation works may have accelerated the spread of the fire. Much of the scaffolding around the complex was built with bamboo, a common but highly combustible material.

Authorities confirmed the death of a 37-year-old firefighter, praising him as «dedicated and gallant». His death has drawn tributes across the city and from government leaders.

Families gathered outside the complex say they have lost contact with loved ones inside. A local councillor told the BBC that desperate residents are pleading for help from authorities as the search intensifies.

Rescue teams continue to work through the night as Hong Kong faces one of its deadliest residential fires in decades.