65 dead, many 'still trapped' in Hong Kong residential tower fire
Hundreds of residents evacuated, many remain trapped on upper floors: What we know so far
A deadly fire broke out at a high-rise tweer complex in Hong Kong, trapping hundreds and killing at least 65 people, including a firefighter, as per local media reports.
Emergency workers said 70 people were injured, including 10 firefighters.
The fire broke out on Wednesday night (November 26, 2025), at the Wang Fuk Court housing estate in Tai Po, a district in Hong Kong’s New Territories.
As the death toll rises, some survivors were found on stairs of the building, while many were "still trapped".
Local authorities have arrested three people for manslaughter and launched a probe into possible malpractice in repair works.
Here’s what to know about the deadly Hong Kong fire:
Cause
The blaze started at the bamboo scaffolding covering the buildings, which was part of ongoing exterior wall repair work. Winds helped the flames spread rapidly across multiple high-rise buildings.
Flammable material made of styrofoam used in renovation works also caused fire to spread rapidly, said local authorities.
BY THE NUMBERS:
At least 65 people have died, including a firefighter, according to the latest SCMP report.
Hundreds of residents were evacuated from 8 residential blocks in the estate; many remain trapped on upper floors.
70 injured including 10 firefighters
Covered in bamboo scaffolding and green mesh, the 8 blocks had been undergoing renovations since July 2024
A criminal probe has been launched to establish cause of blaze
3 people – 2 directors and a consultant of the contractor behind the renovations – have been arrested for manslaughter
Emergency response
It was classified as a No. 5 alarm fire, the highest level for Hong Kong.
Over 700 firefighters and dozens of firetrucks responded.
Rescue operations are difficult due to extreme heat and collapsing scaffolding.
Arrests
Authorities have arrested three men on suspicion of manslaughter related to the fire.
The fire is one of the deadliest in Hong Kong since 1996 and has sparked concerns over bamboo scaffolding safety and building renovation practices.
Police gave more information about the suspects who have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter. The three men, aged between 52 and 68, are from a construction firm - two are directors and one is an engineering consultant.
Police have said they found mesh and protective material on the outside of the buildings that don't seem to be fireproof, as well as Styrofoam on the building's windows.
The police spokesperson told BBC: "We have reason to believe that those in charge at the company were grossly negligent, which led to this accident and caused the fire to spread uncontrollably, resulting in major casualties."
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