Hang in there. These were the last words Mr. Chung said to his wife during a catastrophic fire that erupted in their high-rise public housing complex in Hong Kong's Tai Po district. It was around 15:00 local time when his wife called him in a panic, trapped in their flat with their cat as smoke engulfed their home. Despite swift action, firefighters battled the inferno for nearly 24 hours, devastating seven tower blocks and claiming at least 128 lives, with around 300 residents reported missing. The alarm system failed to alert the residents of danger, leaving many caught off-guard.
Amidst the chaos, Mr. Chung awaited news, frequently checking with firefighters, who could offer little reassurance. She probably did faint, he said, teared-eyed, unable to escape the haunting possibility of his wife's fate.
In this tragic incident, families recall horrific moments as they waited anxiously outside the burning buildings. Many were unaccounted for due to a lack of proper evacuation systems, compounded by the building's aged populace, over 40% of whom are seniors. As investigations continue, arrested construction executives face scrutiny over negligence involving flammable materials in recent renovations. The community mourns, held in anguish as hopes wane with each passing moment without news of the missing. However, the rescue efforts persist, with officials stating they are still hopeful for survivors among the ruins.
Amidst the chaos, Mr. Chung awaited news, frequently checking with firefighters, who could offer little reassurance. She probably did faint, he said, teared-eyed, unable to escape the haunting possibility of his wife's fate.
In this tragic incident, families recall horrific moments as they waited anxiously outside the burning buildings. Many were unaccounted for due to a lack of proper evacuation systems, compounded by the building's aged populace, over 40% of whom are seniors. As investigations continue, arrested construction executives face scrutiny over negligence involving flammable materials in recent renovations. The community mourns, held in anguish as hopes wane with each passing moment without news of the missing. However, the rescue efforts persist, with officials stating they are still hopeful for survivors among the ruins.
