Death toll in Hong Kong fire reaches 159 following search of towers

The number of fatalities from one of Hong Kong's deadliest fires in decades has risen to 159, authorities reported Wednesday, following the completion of searches in all affected residential buildings. Police cautioned that this figure could still change as investigations continue.

The fire erupted last week at Wang Fuk Court in the northern Tai Po district, spreading rapidly and making it the deadliest residential fire globally since 1980. Officials indicated that additional deaths might be confirmed after forensic tests on "suspected human bones" discovered at the scene.

Local residents and mourners gathered at a nearby park to honor the victims, leaving hundreds of flowers and notes. The victims ranged from a one-year-old child to a 97-year-old elder. Visitor Sarah Lam commented, "I hope people can come here to lay their grief to rest," adding her wish for a swift uncovering of the truth behind the tragedy.

The park featured rows of colorful origami cranes, and volunteers provided paper and pens for those wishing to pay tribute. Forrest Li, 26, described the space as a "bridge" that facilitates an unspoken connection for expressing grief with the departed.

Residents from the only unaffected building were permitted brief access to retrieve personal belongings. Authorities noted that the fire's intensity was exacerbated by non-fire-resistant netting used during renovation works. Flames spread quickly across the buildings, which were wrapped in bamboo scaffolding, protective netting, and foam boards.

Secretary for Development Bernadette Linn mandated that all Hong Kong construction sites undergoing major maintenance remove their netting by Saturday. Police have arrested 15 people, including construction company leaders, on manslaughter suspicions, while six others face charges related to malfunctioning fire alarms during the blaze.

The disaster has prompted calls for accountability and reform. Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee urged against exploiting the tragedy for criminal purposes. Beijing's national security office in Hong Kong condemned external forces attempting to incite unrest, emphasizing that such actions will be tracked and punished.

Reports indicate that three individuals, including student Miles Kwan and former district councillor Kenneth Cheung, were detained over sedition accusations, though they were later released. At Hong Kong Baptist University, a student notice board advocating for justice was blocked by barricades, displaying messages urging the government to respond to public demands.

Author: Riley Thompson