Death Toll from Hong Kong Fire Rises to 94

The death toll from the devastating fire at the Wang Fuk Court residential complex in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district has risen to at least 94. According to the local fire service department, the blaze is now almost fully under control, reports BBC.

The fire service department stated that among the dead is a 37-year-old firefighter.

Another 76 people were injured in the incident, including 11 fire service personnel. Officials said the fire is now nearly fully contained, and rescue workers are continuing efforts to locate those still missing inside the burnt buildings.

The densely populated Wang Fuk Court complex comprises eight blocks with 2,000 flats, housing more than 4,600 residents.

Authorities stated that around 900 residents have been placed in eight emergency shelters opened following the fire. Outside these shelters, many people are anxiously waiting in search of their loved ones.

China’s President Xi Jinping has expressed condolences over the incident, according to the state broadcaster CCTV.

Khaborwala/TSN