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.
Lee reported that the fire, which tore through seven of eight tower blocks in Tai Po district on Wednesday, is now basically under control. It started at 14:51 local time with flames and thick clouds of smoke seen billowing from the towers. By the end of the day, officials categorized the fire as level five — the most serious category.
Firefighter Ho Wai-ho, 37, was among those killed in the blaze. Ten other firefighters have also reported injuries. 55 people have been rescued; however, around 270 remain unaccounted for, with 70 reported injuries.
The cause of the fire has sparked public outrage, especially as several residents noted that they did not hear any fire alarms during the outbreak. Many believe alarms were turned off during the renovation process, raising serious concerns about the adherence to safety regulations.
Authorities are currently investigating the construction practices that may have contributed to the fire, including the use of non-fireproof materials. As investigations proceed, the community remains grief-stricken and anxious as the search and rescue operations continue.
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.
Lee reported that the fire, which tore through seven of eight tower blocks in Tai Po district on Wednesday, is now basically under control. It started at 14:51 local time with flames and thick clouds of smoke seen billowing from the towers. By the end of the day, officials categorized the fire as level five — the most serious category.
Firefighter Ho Wai-ho, 37, was among those killed in the blaze. Ten other firefighters have also reported injuries. 55 people have been rescued; however, around 270 remain unaccounted for, with 70 reported injuries.
The cause of the fire has sparked public outrage, especially as several residents noted that they did not hear any fire alarms during the outbreak. Many believe alarms were turned off during the renovation process, raising serious concerns about the adherence to safety regulations.
Authorities are currently investigating the construction practices that may have contributed to the fire, including the use of non-fireproof materials. As investigations proceed, the community remains grief-stricken and anxious as the search and rescue operations continue.
