Officials in Hong Kong report that the death toll from the high-rise residential fire on Wednesday has reached 128. Rescue operations continue as emergency teams search through the heavily damaged building in the city's Kowloon district.
Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the blaze that swept through multiple floors of the residential complex. Preliminary findings indicate that fire alarms in parts of the building were not functioning properly, delaying residents’ evacuation and emergency response times.
Hong Kong’s Fire Services Department stated that an inquiry is underway to examine maintenance records and safety compliance in the building. Officials also confirmed that several survivors remain in critical condition in local hospitals.
The Hong Kong government expressed condolences to the victims’ families and pledged to review fire safety regulations for high-rise buildings. A spokesperson said:
"This tragedy underscores the urgent need to strengthen inspection and maintenance standards across residential properties."
A massive residential fire in Hong Kong left 128 dead as authorities investigate faulty fire alarms and review citywide safety standards.