A devastating fire has swept through a residential complex in Hong Kong’s Tai Po neighborhood, resulting in one of the city’s deadliest incidents in recent years. As of late Wednesday, officials confirmed that at least 36 people, including a firefighter, have lost their lives, with hundreds more reported missing. The death toll is expected to rise as it remains unclear how many individuals may still be trapped in the buildings.

The fire broke out in a housing estate undergoing renovations since July 2024, with seven of the eight high-rise residential buildings affected. Residents were evacuated as the blaze spread rapidly, fueled by construction mesh and flammable bamboo scaffolding that covered the buildings. The use of bamboo scaffolding is a common practice in Hong Kong, one of the last places in the world where it is still widely used in construction.

The cause of the fire has not been determined, but an investigation is underway. Police have arrested three men on suspicion of manslaughter in connection with the incident. Public broadcaster RTHK reported the arrests, which mark the beginning of a thorough inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the fire.

By early Thursday morning, the fire department reported that the blaze was being brought under control, with three of the buildings showing no signs of flames. A task force comprising Hong Kong’s police and fire departments has been established to investigate the cause of the fire and determine the full extent of the damage.

Chinese leader Xi Jinping expressed condolences to the family of the deceased firefighter and extended sympathies to the families of the victims. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting concerns about fire safety and the use of flammable materials in construction.

As the investigation continues, authorities are working to account for all residents and provide support to those affected. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of prioritizing fire safety and adhering to strict building codes to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future. With the city still reeling from the aftermath, the focus remains on providing aid to those in need and uncovering the truth behind this devastating incident.