Death Toll in Hong Kong High-Rise Fire Rises to 36

The death toll from a massive fire that tore through several high-rise residential blocks in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district has risen to 36, Chief Executive John Lee confirmed early Thursday. At least 279 people remain unaccounted for, with dozens hospitalized.

Firefighters battled the blaze late into the night as thick black smoke engulfed the 32-storey towers, which were covered in bamboo scaffolding and green construction mesh. Authorities noted that accessing the upper floors was difficult due to intense heat, and containment became more challenging after dark.

The fire began at the Wang Fuk Court housing complex, home to 2,000 apartments across eight blocks. The cause of the fire has not yet been determined.