A fire broke out at Wang Cheong House, Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po on Wednesday afternoon (Nov 26), sending thick smoke into the sky and prompting multiple emergency calls.
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Firefighters arrived at the scene to find the scaffolding outside the building engulfed in flames. The fire was fierce, and at 3.02pm, authorities raised the alert to a No. 3 alarm fire, which was upgraded to a No. 4 alarm at 3.34pm and further escalated to No. 5 alarm at 6.22pm.
According to reports from the scene, loud explosions continued as the fire spread to nearby blocks, including Wang Tai House and Wang Sun House.
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Sources indicate that at least 13 people were killed in the fire, including one firefighter. A further 16 injured were taken to several hospitals for treatment. Police have set up an enquiry hotline (1878 999) for members of the public seeking information about the casualties.
The firefighter was injured and fell unconscious while battling the fire, and was taken to hospital for treatment. The Director of Fire Services visited the injured at Prince of Wales Hospital in Sha Tin. The Fire Services Department later confirmed that a firefighter died in the fire.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, and residents have been advised to stay clear of the area while firefighting operations continue.
