Hong Kong fire finally under control, death toll rises to 94

The death toll from a devastating fire at a residential complex in Hong Kong has climbed to 94. At least 76 people have been injured, including 11 firefighters, according to the fire service’s latest update early on Friday, November 28.

The blaze spread across eight blocks. Scaffolding made of bamboo and areas containing flammable materials, installed as part of renovation work, helped the flames spread rapidly, causing the fire to burn for hours. A 37-year-old firefighter is among the dead.

Although the fire has now been largely extinguished, the buildings are almost entirely gutted. Firefighters are still conducting operations inside the charred structures to locate the missing.

An investigation has begun to determine the cause of the massive blaze. The bamboo scaffolding and plastic netting surrounding the buildings are part of the probe. The anti-corruption agency has also opened a separate investigation into the complex’s renovation work. Earlier, police arrested three people on allegations of carelessly discarding foam packaging.

Residents said no alarm was heard when the fire broke out. People in the Po Wang Fook Court area went door-to-door to alert neighbours. A resident named Sui said, “The fire was spreading very fast. Trying to save several buildings with only one hose pipe felt extremely slow.”

Following the fire, thousands of people from various parts of Hong Kong joined local volunteers to assist affected residents. A 38-year-old man named Stone set up a support centre for victims. He said, “This is the spirit of Hong Kong—when one person is in trouble, everyone stands with them.”