Four Dead, Including Firefighter, as Massive Blaze Tears Through Hong Kong High-Rises

At least four people have died after a large fire swept through multiple high-rise residential blocks at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, Hong Kong. The blaze, which began on bamboo scaffolding attached to at least three apartment towers, spread into other parts of the buildings and left some residents trapped.

A Hong Kong government spokesman said, "Four people are certified dead, two are in critical condition and one is in stable condition." One of the fatalities was a firefighter. At least one man and one woman were taken to hospital with severe burns.

Video and eye-witness accounts showed thick plumes of smoke pouring from the scaffolding on several towers. Fire services raised the response to a four-alarm fire — the second-highest level — and deployed extensive resources to tackle the blaze.

Parts of a nearby highway were closed to allow fire crews to operate safely. The Fire Services Department advised nearby residents to stay indoors, keep doors and windows closed, remain calm and avoid the affected area while operations continue.

Earlier reports indicated that police and emergency teams had received calls about people trapped inside the buildings; rescue efforts were underway during the incident. Authorities have not yet released details on the exact cause of the blaze while investigations continue.

Separately, authorities reported that four people were hospitalised after a scaffolding fire in Hong Kong’s central business district last month, highlighting ongoing safety concerns related to temporary building works.

What happens next: Emergency crews will continue search and rescue, secure the scene and begin an investigation into the origin of the fire. Officials may issue updates on casualties and road closures as the situation develops.