Hong Kong authorities confirmed on December 20, 2025, that the death toll from the catastrophic fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po has risen to 161, making it the city's worst fire disaster in over seven decades. Police Commissioner Joe Chow Yat-ming announced the increase after forensic DNA analysis identified an additional victim from remains recovered earlier. This marks the latest upward revision in a tragedy that began on November 26, 2025, when a blaze erupted in the public housing complex, rapidly engulfing seven of its eight high-rise blocks.
The fire, which raged for over 43 hours before being fully extinguished, claimed the lives of 161 people, including one firefighter and several foreign domestic workers. At least 79 others were injured, with many suffering severe burns or smoke inhalation. The complex, home to approximately 4,600 residents—nearly 40% of whom were elderly—saw thousands displaced, with residents relocated to temporary shelters.
The incident originated in the lower floors of one block, reportedly sparked in protective netting surrounding bamboo scaffolding used for ongoing renovations. Flames spread unusually quickly due to combustible materials, including substandard mesh netting, polystyrene foam boards covering windows, and bamboo structures. Authorities noted that fire alarms in all eight blocks were malfunctioning, forcing residents to alert neighbors manually and delaying evacuations.
Investigations revealed significant lapses: contractors allegedly substituted fire-retardant materials with cheaper, flammable alternatives after typhoon damage earlier in the year, attempting to deceive inspectors. Multiple arrests have been made, including 13 on manslaughter charges and others in anti-corruption probes related to the renovation contract awarded in 2024.
Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee ordered a judge-led independent inquiry to examine the causes, renovation oversight, and broader fire safety regulations. The government has pledged support for victims' families, including financial aid and relocation assistance, while flags flew at half-mast during a period of mourning.
This disaster surpasses previous major fires, such as the 1996 Garley Building blaze that killed 41. It has prompted widespread scrutiny of building safety in densely populated public housing estates, bamboo scaffolding practices, and enforcement of fire standards amid Hong Kong's aging infrastructure.
As forensic work continues, officials have not ruled out further increases in the toll, though all missing persons reports from the initial aftermath have been resolved. The tragedy has united the community in grief, with memorials and volunteer efforts providing aid to survivors.
