Hong Kong Fire Death Toll Reaches 146 as Investigations Intensify

The death toll from a devastating fire in an apartment complex in Hong Kong has risen to **146**, with investigators uncovering additional bodies in the aftermath of the blaze. The tragic incident occurred at the Wang Fuk Court complex in **Tai Po**, where emergency responders have been combing through the charred remains since the fire broke out on **March 6, 2024**.

As the investigation unfolds, the **Hong Kong police Disaster Victim Identification Unit** continues to search the buildings, having discovered bodies in various locations, including apartment units and rooftops. Officer **Cheng Ka-chun**, who leads the identification team, described the challenging conditions, stating, “It is so dark inside, and because of the low light, it is very difficult to do the work.”

Authorities report that approximately **100 individuals remain unaccounted for**, and **79 others have sustained injuries**. At the scene, a growing makeshift memorial has emerged, with community members leaving flowers and heartfelt notes. Local resident **Lian Shuzheng** expressed the sentiment shared by many, stating, “This really serves as a wake-up call for everyone, especially with these super high-rise buildings.”

Investigations and Safety Concerns

The fire, which took until Friday to be fully extinguished, has raised serious safety concerns regarding building regulations in Hong Kong. The **Wang Fuk Court** complex, consisting of eight **31-story buildings**, was undergoing renovations at the time of the incident. All buildings were clad in bamboo scaffolding covered with nylon netting, and windows were sealed with polystyrene panels, raising questions about compliance with fire codes.

In light of these events, officials announced the suspension of **28 building projects** managed by **Prestige Construction & Engineering Company** for safety audits. A government statement highlighted deficiencies in site safety management, particularly the improper use of foam boards during renovations.

In the immediate aftermath, three men, including directors and an engineering consultant of the construction firm, were arrested on suspicion of manslaughter and gross negligence. They have since been released on bail but were rearrested by **Hong Kong’s anti-corruption authorities**, who have detained an additional eight suspects, including subcontractors and project managers.

Community Response and Broader Implications

The impact of the fire has resonated deeply within the community. Many residents, now displaced, are temporarily housed in emergency shelters or city hotels. **Jeffery Chan**, a civil servant, conveyed the emotional toll, stating, “As a Hong Konger, seeing people in the place where we live lose their families, lose everything in just one night — it is unbearable.”

Preliminary investigations indicate that the fire originated on a lower-level scaffolding net and rapidly spread through the complex, fueled by the flammable foam panels. According to **Chris Tang**, Hong Kong’s Secretary for Security, high winds contributed to the flames jumping between buildings, ultimately engulfing seven out of eight structures.

Compounding the tragedy, reports revealed that several fire alarms within the complex failed to activate during the incident. **Andy Yeung**, director of **Hong Kong Fire Services**, confirmed that alarms had not sounded when tested. The victims included **seven Indonesian migrant workers** and a Filipina domestic helper, with several dozen individuals still unaccounted for.

In response to the crisis, the **Indonesian Foreign Ministry** and the **Philippines Consulate General** in Hong Kong have expressed their condolences and are working to locate their nationals. A gathering of several hundred Filipinos took place in central Hong Kong, where they held prayers and sang hymns in remembrance of the victims.

In a nationwide response, the **Ministry of Emergency Management** in Beijing announced plans for inspections of high-rise buildings across the country, focusing on potential fire hazards and safety protocols, including the use of bamboo scaffolding and non-flame-retardant materials.

As the community mourns and investigations continue, the events at Wang Fuk Court serve as a stark reminder of the critical importance of building safety and adherence to regulations in high-density urban environments.