That's what it's about

A major fire raged through a residential complex in Hong Kong. At least 12 people lost their lives. Others were injured. The fire affected several high-rise buildings that were undergoing renovations and were shrouded in scaffolding.

At least twelve people have died in a major fire at a multi-story residential complex in Hong Kong. At least three others were treated in hospitals, two of them in critical condition, according to a government statement.

As reported by the Hong Kong newspaper South China Morning Post and other local media, a firefighter was among the dead. People were apparently trapped inside a high-rise apartment complex during the fire. Flames and smoke prevented them from escaping.

Highest alert level

The fire broke out in the Wang Fuk Court residential complex in the Tai Po district and was quickly raised to level 4 – the second-highest alert level in Hong Kong. According to the South China Morning Post, at least three of the eight apartment blocks, containing more than 1,900 units, were affected. The fire was later raised to the highest alert level.

Photos and videos from the scene showed large plumes of smoke rising from the scaffolded residential high-rises. Renovation work was being carried out on the buildings. The footage also showed the facade scaffolding engulfed in flames across several floors, with burning debris crashing to the ground. Additionally, fires were visible inside some apartments.