At least 146 people are known to have died in a devastating fire that tore through multiple high-rise buildings in Hong Kong.

Police announced the death toll in a news conference on Sunday, stating that they 'cannot rule out the possibility of further fatalities'. A further 79 individuals are reported injured, with more than 150 still unaccounted for.

The tragic incident occurred on Wednesday, impacting seven out of eight tower blocks in the o northern Tai Po district. The rapid spread of the flames has led to accusations of negligence surrounding the use of flammable materials during renovations.

Thousands have gathered at the Wang Fuk Court complex to mourn, with queues stretching nearly 2 kilometers long.

The death toll continues to rise as officials work diligently to recover and identify bodies. The precise cause of the fire remains undetermined, but eight individuals have been arrested on suspicion of corruption related to ongoing renovations, while three face manslaughter charges.

The fire, which reached temperatures of 500C (932F), led to significant injuries among firefighters as they battled the flames that spread swiftly between the blocks, reportedly fueled by plastic netting and other combustible materials.

Local residents expressed grief and concerns as fire alarms reportedly failed to function effectively across all eight blocks during the incident, raising questions about fire safety protocols.

The tragedy has led to a three-day mourning period across Hong Kong, during which flags were flown at half-mast. Residents have been visiting the scene to lay flowers, pray, and offer handwritten tributes.

Wang Fuk Court, built in 1983, housed approximately 4,600 residents, many of whom are elderly. This incident marks Hong Kong's deadliest fire in over seven decades, with the region's most catastrophic event occurring in 1948, claiming 176 lives. This recent disaster has sparked urgent discussions regarding building safety standards and the continued use of bamboo scaffolding.

As investigations continue, the community remains united in mourning, seeking answers and justice for the lives lost in this tragic incident.