Hong Kong’s Fire Services Department confirmed in its latest update that 55 people have died, while 123 others have been injured, including eight firefighters.
According to officials, 51 victims died at the scene, while four others succumbed to their injuries in hospital.
Authorities had earlier reported that 279 people were missing, but the latest update did not include any further information regarding the missing individuals.
AFP reported that the fire originated in bamboo lofts attached to at least three residential towers within the eight-building complex, which contains around 2,000 apartments. The scale of the blaze was so severe that the complex continued burning for more than 15 hours.
Police have arrested three individuals in connection with the fire—two directors of a construction company and one consultant. Officials said the fire spread “unusually fast,” making it difficult for many residents to escape.
Investigators also found polystyrene and other highly flammable materials inside the building, which intensified the flames. In addition, safety nets, canvas sheets and plastic coverings in the complex failed to meet safety standards, contributing to the disaster.
Source: CNN
