In the early hours of Thursday (Nov 27, 2025), Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) John Lee announced that firefighters have gradually brought a massive blaze at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po under control. 🚒🔥
Lee noted that three of the eight residential towers now show no visible flames, while crews continue to douse sporadic hotspots in four others.
Li said that the HKSAR government will mobilise all available resources to support ongoing rescue operations. Departments have been instructed to:
- Extinguish remaining fire zones
- Rescue any trapped residents
- Treat and transport the injured
- Provide assistance and emotional support to affected families
- Conduct a full investigation into the cause
Hong Kong police reported the death toll has risen to 44, including one firefighter, and 45 people remain in critical condition at local hospitals.
The Fire Services Department was alerted at 2:51 p.m. on Wednesday. Facing a fierce blaze, crews raised the incident to a No. 5 alarm fire at 6:22 p.m. — one of the highest emergency levels — as flames spread across seven of the eight blocks. Rescue operations are ongoing.
Eileen Chung, a Hong Kong police superintendent, confirmed that three men from the renovation contractor have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter.
The Hong Kong Hospital Authority has activated its Major Incident Control Center to coordinate medical response and patient transfers.
Chief Executive of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) Sam Hou Fai reached out to convey condolences and offered full support if needed, highlighting the close ties between the two cities. 🙏
Local residents have been sharing updates on social media, while volunteers and NGOs coordinate supply drops of water and snacks to frontline teams. The community spirit remains strong as everyone rallies to bring families to safety.
Reference(s):
John Lee: Firefighters bringing HK residential area fire under control
cgtn.com
