Police Comb Fire-Ravaged Hong Kong Apartments as Death Toll Climbs to 146

Police in Hong Kong have completed searches of four of the seven residential towers devastated by the city’s deadliest fire in more than seven decades, uncovering bodies in stairwells and on rooftops grim evidence of residents desperately trying to escape the fast-moving blaze.

The inferno, which tore through the high rise apartment complex earlier this week, has now claimed at least 146 lives, with nearly 300 people still unaccounted for. Authorities say the number is expected to rise as rescue workers continue combing through the remaining buildings.

Deadliest Fire in Hong Kong Since 1948

This tragedy marks Hong Kong’s worst fire disaster since 1948, when a blaze in the Shek Kip Mei squatter settlement killed scores and left tens of thousands homeless. That historic fire led to the city’s first mass-public housing initiative a defining moment in Hong Kong’s urban development.

The current catastrophe, however, has raised urgent questions about modern construction practices, safety oversight, and building regulations.

Police Blame ‘Grossly Negligent’ Contractor

Preliminary investigations have already pointed to disturbing findings. Authorities said the fire may have been caused or accelerated by unsafe, flammable materials used by a construction company currently renovating parts of the complex.

Police have labelled the situation “grossly negligent,” noting that some materials recovered from corridors and scaffolding appear to violate basic fire safety standards. Arrests have not yet been made, but officials say criminal charges are likely.

Residents Trapped While Trying to Escape

Rescue teams found several victims collapsed in stairwells, overcome by smoke as they tried to reach lower floors. Others perished on rooftops after fleeing upward when lower exits became impassable.

Witnesses described chaotic scenes as alarms blared, smoke filled hallways within seconds, and families rushed to find escape routes in the dark.

Survivors Left With Nothing

Hundreds of residents have lost their homes, possessions and in many cases their loved ones. Emergency shelters have been set up, and social workers are assisting survivors with housing, food, and trauma support.

The government has pledged a full investigation and financial aid for affected families.

City Demands Answers

As Hong Kong mourns, public pressure is mounting for accountability. Lawmakers are demanding stricter oversight of renovation contractors, updated fire codes for aging buildings, and a review of emergency response protocols in densely populated districts.

For many, the tragedy serves as a painful reminder of the city’s vulnerabilities and the urgent need for reform.