A devastating structural fire that engulfed multiple residential towers in Tai Po, Hong Kong, on Wednesday resulted in the confirmed deaths of 13 people, including a dedicated firefighter, and left at least 15 others injured. The intense incident at Wang Fuk Court quickly escalated to the maximum severity level, prompting an immediate government response and raising serious concerns about construction material safety and high-rise fire protocols.
The disaster unfolded rapidly after a fire broke out in the sprawling public housing complex. Initial reports confirmed that flames quickly spread vertically, utilizing external bamboo scaffolding and safety netting as highly flammable conduits, effectively trapping residents in upper floors. Plumes of dense black smoke billowed over the area for hours as emergency services struggled to contain the inferno. Multiple distress calls were received from residents unable to access safe escape routes.
Emergency Response and Fatalities
The severity of the situation necessitated a rapid increase in the official fire alarm level. Initially designated a No. 1 alarm, it was quickly raised to a No. 4 by mid-afternoon and eventually reached the highest classification, a No. 5 alarm, reflecting the extreme danger and operational complexity involved. Tragically, by 9 p.m., authorities confirmed 13 fatalities. Among the casualties was firefighter Ho Wai-ho, who perished while actively engaged in rescue operations.
Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life, especially the death of the on-duty fire officer. He immediately activated the government’s Emergency Monitoring and Support Centre. Directed by the Chief Executive, various government departments, including the Security Bureau and the Fire Services Department, prioritized tactical firefighting, resident rescue, and immediate medical care for the injured.
Secretary for the Civil Service Ingrid Yeung extended profound condolences to Ho Wai-ho’s family, emphasizing his heroism and dedication, and pledged full assistance from the Civil Service Bureau and the Fire Services Department.
Community Support and Education Measures
The immediate aftermath of the fire caused significant disruption across the Tai Po region. In response to potential transport difficulties and ongoing emergency activity, the Education Bureau announced the suspension of classes for several specified schools near Wang Fuk Court on Thursday, November 27. Schools affected included CCC Fung Leung Kit Memorial Secondary School and Tai Po Baptist Public School. Parents were advised to closely monitor official announcements from the Education Bureau for further updates.
In coordination with local agencies, the government established interdepartmental help desks through the Home Affairs Department, District Offices, and the Social Welfare Department. These centers are providing temporary shelter for displaced residents, along with essential assistance and psychological support for bereaved families and those undergoing treatment. The Hospital Authority activated its emergency mechanism to maximize clinical resources for treating the significant influx of casualties.
This tragic event underscores the critical vulnerability posed by traditional construction materials, such as exterior bamboo scaffolding and synthetic netting, when exposed to high temperatures. The government is expected to launch a comprehensive investigation into the building’s fire safety compliance and the role external construction materials played in accelerating the spread of the deadly blaze. Experts suggest this incident will likely prompt a significant review of current fire safety regulations for high-rise buildings undergoing major renovations within dense urban environments.