Overview
- The fire broke out around 2:50 p.m. local time at the Wang Fuk Court public-housing complex in Tai Po during renovation work and quickly raced along exterior bamboo scaffolding.
- Authorities confirm multiple fatalities including a firefighter and dozens of injuries, while several outlets citing the South China Morning Post report an unconfirmed toll of about 13 dead.
- Seven of the complex’s eight blocks remained ablaze in the evening, with hundreds of firefighters, police and dozens of engines and ambulances deployed, according to emergency officials.
- Police received numerous calls about residents trapped inside, temporary shelters were opened for evacuees, and more than 700 people have taken refuge, local authorities said.
- Residents told local media that building alarms did not sound, nearby roads were closed with the public urged to stay away, and animal rescue groups reported pets trapped in affected units.