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Hong Kong Fire Tragedy: Death Toll Rises to 168 as Investigations Continue
HONG KONG – The devastating fire that swept through Wang Fuk Court in Hong Kong on November 26 has seen its official death toll climb to 168, up from 161. Officials confirmed Thursday that the remains of additional victims have been identified seven weeks after the Chinese territory’s deadliest blaze in decades.
According to a statement released by Hong Kong police on Thursday night, the fire claimed the lives of 110 women and 58 men, ranging in age from 6 months to 98 years old. Four individuals were pronounced dead after being transported to the hospital, while the remaining 164 victims were recovered from the scene. Authorities have confirmed that all remains have been identified, all families notified, and no missing persons are currently unaccounted for.
While most victims have not been publicly named, some identified individuals include 37-year-old firefighter Ho Wai-ho, and ten foreign domestic workers-nine from Indonesia and one from the Philippines-whose identities were confirmed by their respective governments. Officials also stated that two interior decorators and five construction workers were among those killed.
The high-rise housing estate in the suburban Tai Po district, home to approximately 4,600 residents, was undergoing extensive renovations when the afternoon fire erupted, engulfing seven of its eight towers.
The disaster has sparked serious concerns regarding potential bid-rigging, corruption, and negligence on the part of government officials. Investigators have cited substandard mesh netting, polystyrene boards sealed to windows, and failures in the fire alarm system as significant factors contributing to the fire’s ignition and rapid spread.
In response, at the first meeting of Hong Kong’s newly elected legislature on Wednesday, officials proposed enhanced supervision of building maintenance projects and strengthened fire safety measures. John Lee, Hong Kong’s top leader, pledged a fair pursuit of accountability, stating, “We will fairly pursue accountability and take disciplinary action based on facts against anyone who should bear responsibility, regardless of whether they are from within or outside the government or whether they are junior or senior staff.” Additionally, officials suggested implementing a ban on smoking at construction sites.
Local media reported this week that the full list of victims would be made public, citing family members who had been contacted by Hong Kong police. Police reiterated Thursday that the investigation remains ongoing, with a report to be submitted to the coroner. The coroner will then determine whether to open a death inquest, during which police would share details of the victims’ identities with the court.
“Respecting the wishes of the grieving relatives, the Police will not disclose the deceased’s particulars at this stage,” police stated.