The death toll from the devastating fire at a residential apartment complex in Hong Kong has reached 55, as search and rescue operations continue, reports Baltimore Chronicle.
According to fire department officials, 51 of the victims died at the scene, while four others succumbed to injuries in hospitals. Currently, 76 people remain hospitalized, including 15 in critical condition and 28 in serious condition. Fires are still burning in three of the seven affected buildings in the Tai Po district, with all other flames under control. Seven of the eight buildings within the complex were impacted by the fire.
Three men linked to the construction company responsible for the building’s renovation have been arrested and are under investigation, Hong Kong police said. Authorities suspect that the safety mesh used during renovations was substandard and that a significant amount of Styrofoam was installed on windows and exterior walls, which accelerated the fire. The mesh and Styrofoam were discovered in the one building that remained unaffected.
More than 140 fire engines and over 800 firefighters and paramedics were deployed to combat the blaze, with drones also assisting in the operation. Approximately 279 people are reported missing, Hong Kong leader John Lee stated, highlighting the scale of the tragedy.
Lee expressed sorrow over the casualties, including a firefighter who died in the line of duty, offering condolences to the victims’ families. Chinese President Xi Jinping also extended sympathies and ordered authorities to ensure full support for search and rescue efforts, medical treatment for the injured, and post-disaster assistance to minimize further losses.
Earlier we wrote that at least 13 dead as massive fire tears through Hong Kong Tai Po apartment complex.
