Hong Kong fire death toll rises to 44, 3 arrested

(ECNS) — A major fire that broke out Wednesday afternoon at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, Hong Kong, has left 44 people dead and 45 injured, local authorities said at a press conference early Thursday, People’s Daily reported.

Police have arrested three construction company executives on suspicion of manslaughter.

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said that top priorities remain extinguishing the fire and rescuing the injured. The huge fire had been largely brought under control.

Earlier on Thursday, HKSAR Secretary for Security Tang Ping-keung said initial on-site assessments did not rule out the possibility of criminal elements in the case.

Deputy Director of Fire Services (Operations) Chan Hing-yung said preliminary investigations indicated that piles of miscellaneous items and bamboo scaffolding were ignited, and wind carried burning debris to nearby buildings, causing the fire to spread to seven of eight residential blocks.

Police said several nearby roads remained closed due to safety concerns.

According to the Education Bureau, multiple schools in Tai Po District suspended classes on Thursday in light of the incident.

The Tai Po District Office has opened five community halls, in addition to borrowing two local social service facilities and transitional housing units in Tai Mei Tuk, to serve as temporary shelters. More than 700 residents have taken refuge at these centers. Authorities will also assist families of the deceased and injured in applying for emergency relief or special assistance funds.

The Social Welfare Department said it has deployed staff to the shelters to offer immediate support services, including social workers and clinical psychologists, to help affected residents and their families.