The number of deaths of the Hong Kong fire increased to 128

chiny24.com 1 month ago

As was feared, the fire that digested the 31-story skyscrapers of the Wang Fuk Court complex in the northern Tai Po territory became the origin of death for much more people than was reported yesterday.
Currently, according to local authorities, 128 people were killed in the fire, 79 people were injured and 200 people remained unknown. The authorities claim that around 80 bodies "cannot be identified" at the same time confirm that Styrofoam in the windows of the renovated buildings caused the heated windows to rupture and spread fire.

What do we know so far:

128 people, including a firefighter, died; 16 bodies are inactive in buildings;
79 people injured, including 12 firefighters;
25 aid calls stay unresolved;
The destiny of 200 people is unknown;
More bodies wrapped in black bags were removed from the scene of the fire.
Intensive rescue efforts are ongoing, fire extinguishing is ongoing.
Eight residential blocks have been renovated since July 2024, bamboo scaffolds covered with green net were utilized during the renovation.
Authorities say that the flammable styrofoam utilized during the renovation work caused the fire to spread rapidly.
The government launched a prosecutor's investigation to find the origin of the fire.
On Friday, the Independent Corruption Commission arrested 2 directors of Will Power Architects, a consulting company employed by a repair company.
Three members of the management of the Prestige Construction & Engineering Co Limited refurbishment company were previously arrested on charges of manslaughter.
The Independent Anti-Corruption Commission has launched an investigation into corruption related to repair work worth HK$330 million.

According to preliminary findings, officers discovered on each level an elevator entrance covered with Styrofoam, which according to the authorities resulted in a faster spread of fire in blocks and inflamed dwellings across corridors. The grids and foils utilized outside the buildings besides did not meet fire safety standards.