Tragic Fire in Tai Po District Claims Four Lives, Including Firefighter

A catastrophic fire erupted in the Tai Po district of Hong Kong, resulting in the tragic deaths of four individuals, including a brave firefighter. The blaze ignited at approximately 2:50 PM local time (7:50 AM Italian time) at Wang Fuk Court, a significant residential complex currently undergoing renovation. The fire spread rapidly, engulfing bamboo scaffolding surrounding the buildings and creating towering clouds of smoke visible across the area. Emergency response teams are working tirelessly to combat the flames, while the fire department has reported that five others have sustained injuries, two of whom are in serious condition. The situation is dire, as police have received numerous reports of trapped residents within the structures, though the exact number remains uncertain. A former public official, as cited by the South China Morning Post, a reputable English-language publication in Hong Kong, indicated that at least 13 individuals might still be inside the building. Wang Fuk Court comprises eight buildings with a total of 1,984 apartments, housing around 4,000 of Hong Kong's 7.5 million residents, making it one of the most densely populated regions globally. Due to the emergency, nearby residential complexes have been evacuated for safety, and local authorities have established reception points to assist affected individuals. In Hong Kong, fires are categorized on a scale of 1 to 5, with the current incident being classified as a category 5—a designation highlighting the severity of the situation. As the community comes to grips with this tragedy, the focus remains on rescue efforts and ensuring the safety of all residents. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2