A devastating fire at the Wang Fuk Court residential complex in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district has claimed 55 lives, marking one of the deadliest blazes in the city’s modern history. The fire, which began on Wednesday afternoon, engulfed seven of the complex’s eight buildings, with thick smoke and flames still visible on Thursday evening. Over 70 people were injured, and approximately 900 residents were evacuated to temporary shelters. Authorities reported that 51 victims were found dead at the scene, while four others succumbed to injuries in hospitals. One firefighter also lost his life in the tragedy. Hong Kong leader John Lee revealed that contact had been lost with 279 individuals, raising concerns about the number of people still trapped. Firefighters managed to extinguish flames in four buildings by Thursday afternoon, with the remaining three under control. The fire originated from bamboo scaffolding and construction netting, spreading rapidly due to windy conditions and suspected substandard fire-resistant materials. Three individuals, including directors and an engineering consultant from a construction company, were arrested on suspicion of manslaughter. Police seized documents from the office of Prestige Construction & Engineering Company, which was overseeing renovations at the complex. The incident has prompted an anti-corruption probe and calls for stricter safety regulations, including the replacement of bamboo scaffolding with metal alternatives. The tragedy has reignited debates about fire safety standards in Hong Kong’s densely populated residential areas.
分类： society
-
New Zealand launches major inquiry into case of father who hid his children in a forest for years
The New Zealand government has initiated a comprehensive public inquiry into the handling of a high-profile case involving a father who disappeared with his three children into the wilderness for several years before being fatally shot by police. The inquiry, announced by Attorney General Judith Collins, will scrutinize whether government agencies took all necessary steps to ensure the safety and welfare of the children, who were subjected to harsh living conditions without access to healthcare or education. Tom Phillips vanished with his children, aged 5, 7, and 8, from Marokopa in December 2021. The children were discovered at a makeshift campsite in September 2023, hours after Phillips was killed during a confrontation with police following a robbery. The incident, which left a police officer critically injured, has sparked widespread outrage and raised questions about the effectiveness of law enforcement efforts during the family’s prolonged disappearance. The inquiry, led by prominent lawyer and former High Court judge Simon Moore, will examine the actions of officials and deliver its findings by July 2026. The case has gripped New Zealand, prompting debates about the handling of family court proceedings and the adequacy of search efforts. The inquiry will also address concerns about the secrecy surrounding the case and the potential involvement of accomplices in aiding Phillips during his years in hiding.
-
Watch: Car nearly hits first responders in Midwest blizzard conditions
As a severe winter storm swept across the Midwest, first responders faced a perilous situation when a vehicle nearly struck them during their emergency operations. The incident occurred amidst blizzard conditions, which have prompted widespread winter storm alerts and hazardous weather outlooks across several US regions just before the Thanksgiving holiday. The near-miss highlights the dangers faced by emergency personnel during extreme weather events and underscores the importance of public caution during such times. Authorities are urging drivers to exercise heightened vigilance and adhere to safety guidelines to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
-
Shark attack in Australia leaves woman dead, man critically injured
A tragic shark attack occurred off the east coast of Australia on Thursday, resulting in the death of a woman and severe injuries to a man, according to police reports. The incident took place at Crowdy Bay, located 360 kilometers (224 miles) north of Sydney, at approximately 6:30 a.m. Emergency services were swiftly dispatched to the scene after receiving reports of the attack. Witnesses provided immediate assistance to the victims before paramedics arrived. Despite their efforts, the woman succumbed to her injuries at the scene. The man, who sustained critical injuries, was airlifted by helicopter to a nearby hospital for urgent medical attention. Authorities have not yet disclosed specific details about the circumstances surrounding the attack. Police have announced plans to collaborate with marine experts to identify the species of shark involved. Following the incident, the beach within Crowdy Bay National Park was closed to swimmers as a precautionary measure. The park is renowned for its beach camping, fishing spots, and hiking trails. This incident follows a similar tragedy in September, when a man in his 50s was fatally attacked by a shark off Sydney’s Long Reef Beach, with sections of his surfboard recovered from the scene.
-
Two National Guard members in critical condition after shooting near White House
In a shocking incident that unfolded near the White House, two National Guard members were critically injured in what authorities have described as a targeted shooting. The attack occurred less than two blocks from the presidential residence on Wednesday afternoon, prompting a temporary lockdown of the White House and a halt to flights at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. The suspect, who was subdued by nearby National Guard troops, opened fire near the Farragut Square Metro Station, a bustling area frequented by office workers during lunch hours. The motive and identity of the assailant remain unclear. President Donald Trump, who was in Florida at the time, condemned the attack on Truth Social, vowing that the perpetrator would face severe consequences. The incident has reignited debates over the deployment of National Guard troops in Democratic-led cities, a move that has faced legal challenges. The FBI is leading the investigation, with Director Kash Patel labeling the assault as a ‘brazen act of violence.’ The injured soldiers, both from West Virginia, are currently hospitalized, and conflicting reports have emerged about their condition. The attack has drawn widespread condemnation, with Vice-President JD Vance urging prayers for the victims. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the deployment of an additional 500 National Guard members to Washington DC in response to the incident. The National Guard, a reservist force with limited law enforcement powers, was initially deployed to the capital in August to address rising crime rates. While crime statistics have shown a decline since their arrival, the extent of their impact remains uncertain. The intersection where the shooting occurred was flooded with police and security personnel, and eyewitnesses recounted scenes of panic as people sought shelter. The incident underscores the ongoing challenges of gun violence in the United States, particularly in urban centers.
-
Watch: How the shooting of two National Guard members unfolded
In a shocking incident near the White House in Washington D.C., two National Guard members were critically injured in a shooting. The attack occurred just blocks away from the presidential residence, raising immediate concerns about security in the nation’s capital. Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the assault, which has left the two soldiers fighting for their lives. The proximity of the incident to such a high-profile location has prompted heightened vigilance and calls for a thorough review of safety protocols in the area. The community and officials alike are awaiting further details as the investigation unfolds.
-
Woman killed in shark attack in Australia
A tragic shark attack at Crowdy Bay Beach in New South Wales, Australia, has resulted in the death of a young woman and left a man critically injured. The incident occurred early Thursday morning at the remote beach within Crowdy Bay National Park, approximately 300 kilometers north of Sydney. Authorities reported that the woman, believed to be in her 20s, succumbed to her injuries at the scene. The man, also in his 20s, sustained severe lacerations to his thigh and was airlifted to a hospital in Newcastle, where he remains in critical condition. Witnesses attempted to assist the victims before emergency services arrived. Following the attack, the beach was immediately closed, and experts from the Department of Primary Industries were consulted to identify the shark species involved. Surf Life Saving NSW announced that surrounding beaches would remain closed for 24 hours as drones monitored the area for safety. Steve Pearce, CEO of Surf Life Saving NSW, expressed deep condolences to the victims’ families and urged the public to avoid the water and heed lifeguards’ instructions. This marks the fifth fatal shark attack in Australia this year, with the most recent occurring less than three months ago on Sydney’s northern beaches. Further updates on this developing story are expected shortly.
-
‘Who really likes turkey?’ – JD Vance serves Thanksgiving meals to soldiers
During a visit to Fort Campbell in Tennessee, US Vice-President JD Vance sparked a lighthearted debate about the traditional Thanksgiving meal while serving holiday dinners to military personnel. Vance, known for his candid remarks, humorously questioned the widespread appeal of turkey, a staple of the American Thanksgiving feast. His comments came as he engaged with troops, expressing gratitude for their service and dedication. The event highlighted the importance of connecting with service members during the holiday season, even as it playfully challenged long-standing culinary traditions. Vance’s visit underscored the administration’s commitment to supporting military families and fostering a sense of community during national celebrations.
-
Eid Al Etihad: Where to watch fireworks displays this UAE National Day
The United Arab Emirates prepares for its 54th National Day celebrations on December 2, 2025, with spectacular fireworks displays planned across multiple emirates. Known locally as Eid Al Etihad, this anniversary commemorates the nation’s 1971 founding through vibrant cultural expressions including live performances, flag-raising ceremonies, and particularly renowned pyrotechnic exhibitions that consistently surpass global standards for creativity and scale.
Dubai’s celebrations will illuminate multiple locations with synchronized displays. Dubai Festival City Mall and Hatta will commence fireworks at 8pm, while Souk Al Seef, Bluewaters, and The Beach at JBR will follow at 9pm. Global Village presents a special weekend extravaganza featuring combined fireworks and drone shows from December 1-3 at 9pm nightly. Dubai Parks and Resorts offers multiple viewing opportunities at Riverland with fireworks at 7pm and 9:30pm on December 1-2, complemented by laser shows at 7:30pm, 8:30pm, and 9:45pm.
Abu Dhabi’s capital skyline will shine with Yas Bay Waterfront hosting two days of celebrations (December 1-2) featuring traditional performances and 9pm fireworks. The Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental will dazzle spectators with a 9:15pm display on December 2. The Sheikh Zayed Festival continues its three-day program (December 1-3) with integrated fireworks, laser, and drone performances alongside cultural concerts.
Al Ain’s Mother of the Nation Festival at Al Mugheirah Bay extends celebrations across five days (November 28-December 2) with laser shows and pyrotechnics, while Bawabat Al Sharq Mall in Baniyas East continues festivities through December 7, culminating with Ayala performances and an 8pm fireworks display on December 2.
Sharjah contributes to the national celebration with events running through December 2 across historical and tourist sites, including Kalba and Dibba Al Hisn where celebrations began November 22 featuring annual operettas and fireworks displays.
These coordinated nationwide celebrations reflect the UAE’s unity and prosperity, offering residents and visitors unforgettable visual experiences that honor the nation’s journey since federation.
-
US transportation secretary wants more civility in air travel. Not everyone is on board
As the United States braces for its busiest Thanksgiving travel season in 15 years, US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has launched a campaign urging air travelers to embrace civility and dress more respectfully. Titled ‘The Golden Age of Travel Starts with You,’ the initiative draws inspiration from the 1950s and 60s, aiming to restore decorum in modern air travel. However, the campaign has sparked widespread criticism, with many arguing that it overlooks the root causes of passenger frustration, such as flight delays, cramped seating, and stressful airport experiences. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) predicts over 52,000 flights on November 25 alone, underscoring the challenges travelers face. Aviation experts and social media users alike have questioned the efficacy of Duffy’s message, pointing out that declining travel conditions, rather than passenger behavior, are the primary issue. Since 2019, in-flight outbursts have surged by 400%, with 13,800 unruly passenger incidents recorded since 2021. Despite these statistics, experts argue that air travel today is safer and more accessible than in previous decades, though improvements in comfort and efficiency are still needed. While some have praised Duffy’s call for kindness, others emphasize that airlines and regulatory bodies must address systemic issues to truly enhance the travel experience.