HONG KONG (TVBS News) — A massive fire at Hong Kong's Wang Fuk Court public housing estate killed 44 people, including a 37-year-old firefighter, and injured 62 others Wednesday (Nov. 26). The Hong Kong Fire Services Department reported at least 279 people missing from the Tai Po District blaze that swept through the residential complex. Community volunteers mobilized Wednesday evening to provide emergency aid for displaced residents unable to return home.
Donations poured in from concerned citizens Wednesday evening, including water, beverages, tissues, and dry food for affected residents displaced by the blaze. Local restaurants and convenience stores contributed hot meals to support evacuation efforts. The Red Cross provided medical assistance and established a hotline to help residents locate missing family members among the 279 reported missing. Volunteer Mr. Lei (雷) rushed to the scene at 7 p.m., stating he had never witnessed such a severe fire in his life.
Authorities established a temporary shelter at a nearby school auditorium 50 to 100 meters (164 to 328 feet) from the fire late Wednesday, accommodating around 400 residents. The shelter's capacity fell dramatically short for Wang Fuk Court's 1,800 to 1,900 households, forcing authorities to direct displaced residents to additional nearby schools and facilities. Shelter conditions remained orderly despite widespread evacuee anxiety and unease, with loudspeakers announcing registration procedures and relocation points throughout the night.
Firefighting units deployed at least 128 fire trucks, 57 ambulances, and 767 firefighters on Wednesday night to contain the massive blaze and coordinate large-scale evacuation efforts. Multiple explosions rocked the scene, filling the night sky above the Tai Po District residential complex with thick smoke and flames. The fire spread rapidly from one building across the entire Wang Fuk Court estate, forcing authorities to elevate the fire alarm to the highest level, 5, under Hong Kong's emergency response system. ◼