Fire at Central's Chinachem Tower put out, four hospitalized with one critical

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A three-alarm fire at the Chinachem Tower on Connaught Road Central has been largely extinguished.

The Fire Services Department received the alert at 4:24 p.m. and arrived on the scene four minutes later. Crews found the building's exterior encased in scaffolding for renovation work, with flames spreading rapidly and intensely to adjacent buildings. After receiving calls for help from the public, the fire was upgraded to a three-alarm level eight minutes later.

The flames were primarily concentrated on the building's exterior and did not seriously spread to interior units. The fire was contained by 5:46 p.m., brought under control by 7:00 p.m., and largely extinguished by 9:13 p.m. A fire investigation team has been established to determine the cause.

Four casualties—three men and one woman—were found on the staircase between the 3rd and 4th floors. One man is in serious condition with a significant head injury and breathing difficulties from smoke inhalation. The others sustained minor injuries, and all were transported to Queen Mary Hospital for treatment.

The fire department deployed 36 fire engines, 15 ambulances, and 184 personnel. Crews utilized four water jets, four breathing apparatus teams, and two water towers from hydraulic platforms. Drones were also deployed to monitor the fire's spread from the perimeter.

Approximately 50 occupants of the building evacuated safely on their own. 

Footage from bystanders captured the ferocity of the flames as they consumed the scaffolding, with thick smoke billowing upward, visible across the district.

The fire significantly disrupted traffic in the area, with the Transport Department announcing the full closure of Connaught Road Central toward Sheung Wan near Pedder Street, as well as both directions of Des Voeux Road Central between Queen Victoria Street and Pottinger Street. 

Tram services were also halted due to the road closures.

(Updated at 10.20pm)