Hong Kong blaze death toll rises to 94; search efforts near completion, several missing

The death toll in the massive blaze that ripped through the Wang Fuk Court apartment complex in Hong Kong's Tai Po has reportedly risen to 94, leaving several others missing, as confirmed by the Hong Kong fire authorities. Officials said that they expect to complete the search and rescue operation by 9 a.m. on Friday. Firefighters managed to contain the blaze around dawn, as per media reports.

Search Operations in Final Stages

Deputy Fire Services Director Derek Chan said teams were working to forcibly enter all units across seven buildings to ensure no victims remain inside. As of Thursday morning, 279 people were reportedly listed as missing, though the figures have not been updated in more than 24 hours. Twenty-five emergency calls to the Fire Department remain unresolved, including three made recently that will be prioritized.

Rescuers have been navigating intense heat, thick smoke and collapsing scaffolding as they searched upper floors. Most victims were found in two towers, though survivors were located in several buildings.

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Arrests and Safety Concerns

Authorities have arrested three construction company officials on suspicion of manslaughter for allegedly using unsafe materials, including flammable foam boards that blocked windows. Police Superintendent Eileen Chung said investigators believe the company’s leaders were “grossly negligent,” allowing the fire to spread rapidly.

Police reportedly raided the firm, Prestige Construction, seizing documents, electronic devices and staff lists. The company had been conducting maintenance work at the complex for over a year.

Deadliest Fire in Decades

The incident marks Hong Kong’s worst fire since 1948, when 176 people died in a warehouse blaze. In response, the city’s development bureau is discussing plans to gradually replace bamboo scaffolding with metal structures to prevent similar tragedies.