The death toll from a devastating fire at an apartment complex in Hong Kong has risen to 146, making it one of the worst disasters in the city's history. Investigators continue to search the Wang Fuk Court complex for additional victims, while the community mourns and reflects on the tragedy.

Investigation and Recovery Efforts
The Hong Kong police's disaster victim identification unit has been meticulously combing through the charred remains of the Wang Fuk Court complex. Officer Cheng Ka-chun reported that the search has been slow due to poor visibility inside the buildings, where bodies have been found in both apartments and on rooftops. As of now, investigators have examined four of the seven blocks, uncovering an additional 30 bodies, including 12 previously discovered but not recovered by firefighters.

Casualty Figures
Authorities have confirmed that approximately 100 people remain unaccounted for, and 79 individuals have sustained injuries. The community has come together to support those affected by the fire, with many leaving flowers and handwritten notes at a makeshift memorial at the site. Local resident Lian Shuzheng emphasized the need for heightened safety measures in high-rise buildings, calling the incident a wake-up call.

Community Response and Donations
In the aftermath of the tragedy, residents have rallied to provide assistance to those who lost their homes. Donations of supplies have been made to help victims who are now facing homelessness. The fire, which broke out on Wednesday and was fully extinguished by Friday, has prompted a wave of grief and solidarity among the local population.

Government Actions and Safety Concerns
In response to the incident, Hong Kong officials have suspended work on 28 construction projects managed by the contractor involved in the renovations at Wang Fuk Court. Authorities are investigating potential violations of fire codes, particularly concerning the use of foam boards to block windows during repairs. The government is keen to prevent public unrest, having faced significant protests in 2019, and has issued warnings against using the disaster to incite further discord.

Wrap-up
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on identifying the cause of the fire and ensuring that safety regulations are enforced to prevent future tragedies. The community's grief is palpable, and the incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of building safety in densely populated areas.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team