Hong Kong's Deadly Tai Po Fire: Death Toll Rises to 146 Amidst Criminal Probe & Citywide Mourning

Hong Kong Reels as Tai Po Fire Death Toll Hits 146, Criminal Investigation Underway

Hong Kong is gripped by profound sorrow as the death toll from the devastating Tai Po fire tragedy climbed to 146, marking it as one of the city's deadliest blazes in decades. An additional body was recovered on Sunday morning, adding to the grim count of confirmed fatalities. The inferno, which ignited on Wednesday at Wang Fuk Court, has left 79 people injured, including 12 firefighters who bravely battled the raging flames. The fate of approximately 150 individuals remains uncertain, intensifying the anguish felt across the region.

Catastrophic Blaze Linked to Renovation Materials

Investigators are pointing to highly flammable styrofoam, reportedly used in ongoing renovations, as a critical factor in the rapid spread of the fire. The eight residential blocks in the estate had been undergoing extensive renovation since July 2024, shrouded in bamboo scaffolding and protective green mesh, which may have contributed to the inferno's devastating scale. The blaze quickly escalated to a No. 5 alarm, the highest level, engulfing seven of the eight blocks and sending massive plumes of dark smoke billowing into the sky.

Citywide Mourning and Official Response

In response to the unprecedented tragedy, the government has launched a full-scale criminal investigation to determine the exact cause of the fire and hold those responsible accountable. A three-day period of citywide mourning has been declared, with national and Hong Kong flags flying at half-mast at all government buildings and facilities, including those abroad, until Monday.

Emotional scenes unfolded across Hong Kong as residents and workers queued at the fire site, in Central, and at designated halls to pay their respects. Tears flowed freely as people laid flowers, offered prayers, and wrote heartfelt tributes to the victims. Among the confirmed dead are seven Indonesian helpers, with another 79 still unaccounted for, highlighting the international impact of the disaster.

Recovery efforts continue on the fifth day since the inferno began, with emergency services tirelessly working through the devastated site. Beijing has extended its condolences and praised Hong Kong's comprehensive rescue and relief operations, pledging its unwavering support during this challenging time.

Support Hotlines Available

For those seeking assistance or information, several hotlines have been established:

• Casualty Inquiry Hotline (Police): 1878 999
• Mental Health Support Hotline (Health Bureau): 18111
• Tai Po District Office Help Desk (Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital): 2658 4040