A devastating blaze engulfed multiple residential blocks at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, Hong Kong, on Tuesday, resulting in four civilian fatalities and five injuries, while tragically claiming the life of a dedicated firefighter. The escalating inferno, which began around 2:51 p.m. on the exterior scaffolding of Cheong House, forced the Fire Services Department (FSD) to elevate the response to a rare No. 5 alarm, mobilizing extensive resources for containment, search, and rescue operations amidst widespread devastation.
The incident was first reported shortly before 3 p.m. when flames erupted on the external works of Cheong House. Initial response was rapidly overwhelmed as strong winds and combustible renovation materials—specifically safety netting and scaffolding—acted as conduits, allowing the fire to rapidly leap laterally to neighboring structures, including Tai House and Sun House. Loud explosive sounds were reported by residents as the fire spread along the facades, breaching windows, and engulfing numerous interior units.
Firefighter Dies in the Line of Duty
The fire exacted a heavy toll on emergency personnel. FSD Director Andy Yeung confirmed the death of 37-year-old firefighter Ho Wai-ho from the Sha Tin Fire Station, a veteran with nine years of service. Officer Ho lost contact with his team around 3:30 p.m. while engaged in heroic ground-level rescue operations. He was located shortly after 4 p.m. exhibiting severe facial burns and was rushed to Prince of Wales Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 4:45 p.m. The FSD issued profound condolences and pledged comprehensive welfare and psychological support to his family. Separately, another firefighter was hospitalized due to heat exhaustion from the intense battle.
The civilian casualties included four fatalities and five injured individuals. Two of the injured remain in critical condition, underlining the severity of the incident. The Hospital Authority deployed medical teams immediately for on-site triage and casualty evacuation. Police established a public hotline (1878 999) to manage inquiries related to the incident.
Rapid Spread Through Renovation Materials
Wang Fuk Court, an estate completed in 1983, was undergoing significant exterior renovations at the time of the disaster, including plastering and finish applications. Investigators believe the extensive external scaffolding and protective netting present for these works fundamentally contributed to the rapid, estate-wide spread of the conflagration under gusty conditions, transforming the facades into burning surfaces. Footage captured intense flames venting from windows and massive columns of smoke billowing into the sky visible from great distances.
As forces battled the height of the blaze, authorities strongly urged nearby residents to remain indoors, keep all windows and doors sealed, and refrain from traveling to the affected area to ensure unimpeded access for emergency vehicles. Traffic control and cordons remain in place around Tai Po Road near the estate.
Investigations Underway
With firefighting efforts continuing late into the evening, systematic checks and evacuations were being coordinated across multiple towers. The focus of the impending investigation will center on several critical elements: the specific ignition source, the precise role and combustibility of the temporary scaffolding and netting, the influence of wind conditions, and the structural integrity of the affected residential units.
The tragedy underscores the critical need for rigorous fire safety protocols during extensive high-rise renovation projects, particularly concerning the material specifications and setup of temporary external structures. Authorities anticipate releasing further updates regarding the identities of the deceased and the full extent of property damage as the site is secured and assessments begin.