Death Toll in Hong Kong Apartment Fire Reaches 146 as Search Continues

The tragic fire at the Wang Fuk Court apartment complex in Hong Kong has claimed at least 146 lives, with more bodies discovered as search efforts continue. Investigators, aided by the Hong Kong police’s Disaster Victim Identification Unit, have been meticulously combing through the remains of the devastated buildings. The fire, which erupted on March 13, 2024, has left a lasting impact on the community as mourners gather daily to pay their respects at a growing makeshift memorial.

According to Cheng Ka-chun, the officer in charge of the investigation, bodies have been located both within apartment units and on rooftops. He reported that the search process is slow, primarily due to poor visibility and the complex layout of the burned structures. “It is so dark inside, and because of the low light, it is very difficult to do the work, especially in places away from the windows,” he stated while wearing protective gear.

As authorities continue their grim work, reports indicate that around 100 individuals remain unaccounted for, and 79 people have been confirmed injured. Tsang Shuk-yin, head of the police casualty unit, provided the latest updates on the situation. The search efforts have so far covered four of the complex’s seven blocks.

In the aftermath, many residents have found temporary refuge in emergency shelters and hotels, while community members have rallied to support those affected by the disaster. People have been seen leaving flowers and handwritten messages of condolence at the memorial, with one local, Lian Shuzheng, emphasizing the need for improved safety in high-rise buildings.

The fire, which started on a scaffolding net, spread rapidly due to flammable foam insulation panels that blocked windows. Investigations suggest that this may have violated fire safety regulations. In response to the tragedy, Hong Kong officials announced the immediate suspension of work on 28 building projects overseen by the same contractor, Prestige Construction & Engineering Company, pending safety audits. The government remarked on the severe deficiencies in site safety management highlighted by the incident.

On March 14, three men associated with the construction company were arrested on suspicion of manslaughter due to alleged gross negligence. These individuals, including company directors and an engineering consultant, were later released on bail but were rearrested by anti-corruption authorities along with eight additional suspects linked to the project.

Initial investigations revealed that some fire alarms in the complex failed to activate during the blaze, raising questions about the safety systems in place. Chris Tang, Hong Kong’s Secretary for Security, noted that the fire began from lower-level scaffolding and quickly engulfed seven of the eight buildings due to strong winds.

The tragedy has drawn international attention, especially as it has affected migrant workers. Reports confirmed that among the deceased were seven Indonesian workers and one Filipina domestic helper, with several others still missing, prompting responses from both the Indonesian Foreign Ministry and the Philippines Consulate General in Hong Kong. Vigils have been held, with hundreds gathering to pray for the victims.

As the community grapples with the aftermath, the Ministry of Emergency Management in Beijing announced a nationwide initiative to inspect high-rise buildings for fire hazards, focusing on materials like bamboo scaffolding and non-flame-retardant safety nets. This incident has served as a stark reminder of the potential risks associated with high-density residential environments and the paramount importance of adhering to safety regulations.