At least 13 people died after a massive fire tore through several high-rise buildings at Wang Fuk Court in Hong Kong’s Tai Po District. The blaze, which began around 2:51 p.m., spread quickly across multiple towers, injuring 15 people and forcing over 1,000 residents to evacuate.
One of the victims was firefighter Ho Wai-ho, 37, who collapsed during the rescue effort. Authorities praised his courage and service. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, though bamboo scaffolding may have fueled its rapid spread.
Nearly 700 firefighters are battling the flames and searching for anyone still trapped. Displaced residents described fleeing with only what they could carry. Wang Fuk Court, built in 1983, is home to about 4,600 people, now facing immense loss as recovery efforts begin.
