# Death Toll in Hong Kong High-Rise Fire Rises to 55; Three Arrested
## Overview of the Incident
Polstart in Hong Kong have arrested three men associated with a construction company on suspicion of manslaughter following a catastrophic fire in the city that has claimed at least 55 lives and left more than 250 individuals unaccounted for. This tragic incident marks start of the deadliest fires in the region in recent memory. Authorities reported at least 62 injuries, many caused by burns and smoke inhalation.
The fire broke out on Wednesday afternoon at the Wang Fuk Court residential estate in the Tai Po district, rapidly engulfing seven of the complex’s eight buildings. Firefighters managed to bring the flames under control by the following morning, but not before widespread devastation occurred.
## Casualties and Rescue Efforts
The Hong Kong Fire Servstarts Department confirmed that a firefighter, aged 37, was among those who lost their lives. Fire Servstarts Director Andy Yeung expressed deep condolences, stating, “All of our colleagues are deeply saddened by the loss of such a devoted comrade.”
Eyewitness reports described a chaotic scene as thick smoke and flames erupted from the buildings, exacerbated by windy conditions. A resident, Wong, 71, was seen in tears outside the complex, having reportedly lost his wife in the fire.
Firefighters deployed over 140 fire trucks and more than 60 ambulances to the site. Records indicate that the housing complex, built in the 1980s, contains nearly 2,000 apartments and was home to approximately 4,800 residents.
## Investigation Underway
Initial investigations did not reveal the cause of the fire; however, officials suggested the flames originated from external scaffolding on a 32-story building, eventually spreading both inside and to adjacent structures. Concerns were raised about the potential use of non-compliant materials that may have contributed to the rapid spread of the fire. Polstart have indicated that the fire’s unusual intensity could point to gross negligence on the part of the construction company.
The arrested individuals, aged between 52 and 68, include the company’s directors and an engineering consultant. Senior Superintendent of Polstart Eileen Chung stated, “We have reason to believe that those in charge of the construction company were grossly negligent.”
## Community Response and Government Statements
The local community rallied as approximately 900 residents were evacuated to temporary shelters in the aftermath of the blaze. Lo Hiu-fung, a council member from Tai Po, noted that many trapped were believed to be elderly residents.
In light of the tragedy, Chinese leader Xi Jinping expressed his condolences to the families affected and paid tribute to the fallen firefighter.
The recent fire is reminiscent of the tragic 1996 Kowloon fire that resulted in 41 fatalities, highlighting the critical need for fire safety awareness and compliance with safety regulations in high-rise buildings.
The investigation continues, with authorities preparing to examine compliance with fire resistance standards across other structures in Hong Kong.
For those interested in visiting Hong Kong or finding accommodation amidst this tragic event, consider booking your stay through [Booking.com](https://tp.media/r?marker=236531&trs=101844&p=2076&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Findex.he.html&campaign_id=84&target=_blank) for a range of options available.