55 people, including a firefighter, have been confirmed dead in a deadly fire that engulfed some high rise buildings in an estate in the heart of Hong Kong. 51 of the victims were found dead at the scene.
The Wang Fuk Court Estate house building as tall as 32 floors and is home to close 5000 people many of whom are elderly people aged 65 and above.
Reports indicates that 76 people are in hospital, 15 of whom are in critical condition, 28 others are deemed serious. 62 others are confirmed to be trapped in various floors of the buildings.
Some of the buildings in the estate are undergoing major maintenance a situation that has been attributed to the rapid spread of the fire.
Authorities say that highly flammable styrofoam material and bamboos used in renovation works caused fire to spread rapidly. Reports say the fire spread across a 32 storey building within an incredible five minutes.
The complex has seven buildings of which five were engulfed by the blaze. Fire in three of the buildings has been brought under control.
Hong Kong authorities have arrested three people, two directors and a consultant of the contractor handling the renovations. They were arrested on suspicion of culpable manslaughter.
Hong Kong leader, John Lee Ka-chiu ordered immediate criminal investigations, while inspections are also being simultaneously carried out on all public housing estates undergoing major renovations.
Chinese President, Xi Jinping has expressed his condolences on Wednesday evening. President Jnping also called for “all-out efforts” to minimise casualties and losses.
