Hong Kong authorities have confirmed the death toll from last week’s catastrophic residential complex fire has reached 151, marking one of the most devastating building fires in the city’s history. The tragedy struck a high-rise residential building in the Tai Po district, with emergency services continuing recovery operations amid the structurally compromised infrastructure.
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government has declared an official period of mourning, with national and regional flags flying at half-mast across all government buildings. A memorial service was conducted on November 29th to honor the victims, attended by senior officials and grieving community members.
Law enforcement agencies have made significant progress in the investigation, arresting 13 individuals suspected of manslaughter in connection with the fire. Preliminary findings suggest serious fire safety violations within the building, including obstructed escape routes and potentially malfunctioning fire prevention systems.
The disaster has prompted immediate city-wide reviews of fire safety protocols in residential buildings, particularly older structures. Chief Executive John Lee has announced comprehensive safety inspections across all high-density residential areas and pledged to strengthen enforcement of building safety regulations.
Medical facilities throughout Hong Kong continue to treat over 80 injured survivors, with several remaining in critical condition. The community has responded with an outpouring of support, including blood donations and emergency relief efforts coordinated by local organizations.
This incident represents the deadliest building fire in Hong Kong’s modern history, surpassing previous tragedies and raising urgent questions about urban safety standards in densely populated areas.