Massive fire rips through Hong Kong high-rises; at least 55 dead, three arrested on suspicion of manslaughter

A devastating fire ripped through several high-rise buildings in the Wang Fuk Court housing complex in the Tai Po District of Hong Kong, killing at least 55 people and leaving many others missing or injured, according to officials.

The blaze broke out Wednesday afternoon and quickly spread across seven of the eight towers in the complex — a structure home to thousands of residents, many of them elderly or low-income. Authorities say the fire’s rapid advance was likely fueled by unsafe materials used during recent renovations, including bamboo scaffolding, foam cladding and mesh netting that failed fire-resistance standards.

Firefighters battled the inferno overnight amid intense heat, thick smoke and falling debris. Rescue efforts remain underway as emergency crews attempt to reach upper floors, look for survivors and account for missing residents.

In response, police have arrested three men — two directors and an engineering consultant from the construction firm handling the renovation — on suspicion of manslaughter. Investigators say they may have been grossly negligent by using flammable materials and sealing windows improperly, contributing to the tragedy.

The fire is being described as one of the deadliest in decades in Hong Kong. Authorities are reviewing safety protocols and plan broad inspections of other renovation sites throughout the city.

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