Fire Spread Across Seven Towers in Minutes
According to emergency officials, the fire began in one of the mid-rise blocks before rapidly engulfing adjacent towers in the densely packed residential estate. Residents reported hearing explosions and seeing flames race vertically up the buildings within minutes. Many were trapped inside smoke-filled corridors as rescuers smashed windows and battled intense heat to reach them.
Helicopters hovered overhead, while firefighters used ladders and cranes to rescue people stranded on balconies. Several teams worked through the night, pulling victims from stairwells and high floors where smoke had accumulated.
Hundreds Missing; 62 Injured
Authorities confirmed 62 injured residents were rushed to hospitals across Hong Kong, many suffering from severe smoke inhalation and burns. As of Thursday morning, 279 people were still listed as missing, raising fears that the death toll may rise significantly as search operations continue.
Three Arrested for Manslaughter
Hong Kong police have arrested three men on suspicion of manslaughter. While officials have not released their identities, preliminary investigations suggest that safety lapses and possible negligence may have played a direct role in the rapid spread of the fire.
Initial reports point to concerns over the exterior cladding materials used on the towers. Fire chiefs stated that sections of the buildings’ outer walls “may not have met fire-resistance standards,” enabling flames to shoot upward and sideways far faster than expected.
Residents Recount Night of Horror
Survivors described terrifying scenes as thick, toxic smoke filled staircases, forcing many to crawl on the floor or use wet towels as makeshift masks. Some residents escaped by tying bedsheets together, while others waited at windows for firefighters to reach them.
“I saw flames rising like a torch outside my window,” said one survivor from Tower 3. “The corridor was completely dark and filled with smoke. I thought I would die there.”
Government Faces Tough Questions
Hong Kong authorities have announced a full-scale inquiry into the incident, with pressure mounting on the administration to clarify whether outdated fire safety standards or maintenance lapses contributed to the catastrophe. Urban planning experts say the tragedy highlights structural vulnerabilities in older high-rise complexes.
International Sympathy and Response
Leaders across Asia expressed condolences, with emergency response teams from Singapore and South Korea offering technical support. India’s Ministry of External Affairs also issued a statement extending solidarity with Hong Kong authorities during the crisis.
Rescue Efforts Continue
With dozens of residents still missing, search and rescue operations remain the highest priority. Firefighters continue to navigate damaged structures weakened by heat, while forensic teams work to identify victims recovered overnight.
