Hong Kong Apartment Blaze Kills at Least 12, Including Firefighter

A massive fire broke out on the afternoon of November 26, 2025, in the residential complex Wang Fuk Court, located in the Tai Po district of Hong Kong, and by evening, at least 12 people had been killed.

The blaze started around 2:15 p.m. local time, and within hours it escalated from a No. 3 to a No. 5 alarm — the highest level, signalling a severe multi-building fire disaster.

The complex houses thousands of residents across multiple high-rise blocks. At the time of the fire, many residents were trapped inside, including elderly people and infants.

Horrific Toll — Including a Firefighter

According to initial reports, the fatalities included eight women and three men from among the residents. Among the dead was a 37-year-old firefighter, who lost contact with his crew while battling the blaze — he later succumbed to severe facial burns.

In addition to the dead, at least 16 people were injured. Many suffered from burns or smoke inhalation, and some remain in serious condition.

Scenes of Chaos — Smoke, Scaffolding and a Race Against Time

Witnesses described horrifying scenes: thick smoke pouring from windows, flames licking across exterior bamboo scaffolding (part of ongoing building renovation), fire trucks with ladder hoses aiming torrents of water at the blaze, and terrified residents trying to escape.

At least five — and possibly up to eight — of the estate’s high-rise blocks were engulfed or threatened by fire, creating a chaotic, rapidly deteriorating situation.

More than 100 pets were reportedly still inside the engulfed buildings at some point, adding another tragic dimension to the disaster.

Road closures affected nearby highways, including Tai Po Road, as emergency crews worked furiously to control the fire and evacuate residents. Additionally, temporary shelters were set up to help displaced families.

What’s Next: Investigation and Mourning

Moreover, authorities have not yet determined the cause of the fire. Investigators are looking into possible links to the bamboo scaffolding renovation work that was ongoing — scaffolding and construction materials have been cited as potential factors in how quickly the fire spread.

For now, the city mourns. Families mourn loved ones, firefighters mourn a fallen colleague, and the community of Tai Po is shaken. Shelters remain open for evacuees, as the scale and emotional impact of this tragedy begin to sink in.

You might also want to read: UPS Airlines Flight 2976 Cargo Plane Erupts in Flames