Hong Kong Blaze Claims 36 Lives, 279 Missing: 3 Arrested in Manslaughter Probe
Image Source: Internet
A devastating fire swept through a 32-storey residential complex in Hong Kong's Tai Po district, leaving at least 36 people dead and 279 reported missing. According to authorities, the blaze, which raged for hours, started at the external scaffolding of the building and spread to nearby towers due to strong winds. Local media reported that three individuals have been arrested in connection with the tragedy on suspicion of manslaughter. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation, with a dedicated team set up to probe the incident. Firefighters faced extreme challenges in battling the blaze, with temperatures inside the buildings reaching hazardous levels and debris falling from the affected structures. Over 140 fire trucks and 60 ambulances were deployed to the scene, but some residents remained trapped inside the affected buildings until Wednesday night. The tragedy has left many residents homeless, with temporary shelters set up by Tai Po district officials. Chinese President Xi Jinping has expressed condolences to the victims' families and those affected by the disaster, urging authorities to make every effort to extinguish the fire and minimize casualties. As the investigation into the cause of the fire continues, officials have promised to provide support to the affected residents and families of the victims, including the firefighter who lost his life in the line of duty.
