At Least 13 D*ead and Others Still Trapped After Massive Fire Tears Through Multiple Hong Kong Residential Towers

At least 13 people have been confirmed d*ead after a major fire surged through several high-rise buildings in Hong Kong, leaving destruction, chaos, and unanswered questions in its wake.

The blaze erupted at Wang Fuk Court — a large housing complex — and rapidly spread through multiple tower blocks. Videos circulating online showed at least five buildings engulfed in flames, with smoke pouring from dozens of windows.

Authorities have since confirmed that among the victims was a firefighter who lost his life trying to rescue others.

For illustrative purposes only (Getty Images/VCG)

So far, 15 people have been reported injured, with three listed in critical condition due to severe burns.

Fire officials stated that they still do not have accurate information on how many people were inside the buildings at the time — including those who may still be trapped — as the fire broke out around 2:51 p.m. local time on November 26.

While the exact cause is unknown, early investigations suggest that the flames may have spread quickly because of bamboo scaffolding that had been erected around the buildings for construction work.

A massive emergency response was deployed. Approximately 700 firefighters have been working to contain the blaze, rescue residents, and prevent further collapse or spread.

For illustrative purposes only (Yan ZHAO / AFP via Getty Images)

Authorities identified the fallen firefighter as Ho Wai-ho, age 37. He passed away at Prince of Wales Hospital after being found collapsed inside one of the burning buildings.

Hong Kong’s Director of Fire Services, Andy Yeung, issued a statement:

“Mr. Ho served the Fire Services Department for about nine years. His performance was courageous and exemplary. We are profoundly saddened by the loss of such a dedicated and brave fireman. On behalf of all our colleagues, I extend our deepest condolences to his family.”

Local District Councillor Mui Siu-fung told the BBC that over 1,000 residents from the area — located in the northern part of Hong Kong — have been evacuated to an emergency shelter for safety.

For illustrative purposes only (Yan ZHAO / AFP via Getty Images)

Among the evacuees is Harry Cheung, a longtime resident who spoke to Reuters. He has lived in Block Two of Wang Fuk Court for more than 40 years.

Harry said he heard “a very loud noise” at around 6:45 a.m. GMT (2:45 p.m. local time).

“I immediately went back to grab my things,” he explained. “I don’t even know how I feel right now. I’m just thinking about where I’m going to sleep tonight because I doubt I’ll be able to go home.”

According to official information, Wang Fuk Court has been occupied since 1983.

The housing complex operates under a subsidized homeownership scheme and is home to roughly 4,600 people.