English
Hong Kong apartment fire tragedy deepened Friday as firefighters discovered dozens more bodies inside a devastated high-rise complex. Authorities confirmed 128 deaths after crews completed an apartment-by-apartment search of the seven burned towers. Many residents still remain unaccounted for, and officials warn that more bodies may surface in the coming days.
Firefighters uncover more victims
Fire crews moved through the charred buildings and focused on units linked to earlier emergency calls. They reached many of these apartments only after the 24-hour battle to control the blaze. Smoke still escaped from the skeletal structures two days after the fire began, showing how violently the flames spread.
The Hong Kong apartment fire tragedy grew worse as officials reported that 89 bodies remain unidentified. More than 2,300 firefighters and medical workers joined the massive response. The blaze also injured 79 people, including 12 firefighters, and killed one who attempted to rescue trapped residents.
Failures in safety systems raise concern
Investigators tested alarms inside the complex and found that some systems did not activate. Officials did not confirm how many units had faulty alarms, but they noted that the complex housed many older residents who may not have reacted quickly without alerts.
Authorities say the fire jumped between buildings because bamboo scaffolding, netting, and foam panels ignited rapidly. These materials surrounded the towers due to ongoing renovations. Flames climbed the exterior walls and shattered windows, allowing fire to surge into interior spaces.
Renovation crews face arrests
Police arrested eight more people Friday, including subcontractors, engineering directors, and renovation managers. They face accusations of negligence and involvement in unsafe construction practices. Officers also seized documents and bank records while searching company offices.
The arrests followed earlier detentions of three men suspected of manslaughter linked to the renovation work. Investigators discovered highly flammable plastic foam panels on every floor of the one unaffected tower. They believe the construction company installed the panels, though their purpose remains unclear.
Origins of the fire and next steps
Security Secretary Chris Tang said the fire began on lower-level scaffolding and spread upward as the foam panels ignited. The blaze then burst through windows and engulfed living spaces. Officials plan immediate safety inspections across Hong Kong to verify material standards at other major renovation sites.
Residents describe the devastation
Many survivors now face homelessness. One resident, 70-year-old Katy Lo, returned to find her building engulfed in flames. She said the disaster “still feels like a bad dream” as she sought government aid.
A historic tragedy for the city
The blaze ranks among Hong Kong’s deadliest in decades. Only a 1948 warehouse fire and a 1996 commercial building blaze caused worse losses. Officials warn that the final toll may rise as investigations continue.
“Stay with PhoenixQ so you never miss a major development.”
