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Final death toll announced
Hong Kong authorities confirmed Thursday that 168 people died in last November's apartment complex blaze, revising the previous count upward by seven. The disaster marks the city's deadliest fire in decades.
Victim demographics released
Police disclosed that victims ranged from a six-month-old infant to a 98-year-old resident. Of the deceased, 110 were women and 58 were men. Many were long-term elderly tenants who had resided in the building for years.
The fatalities included 10 domestic workers-nine Indonesians and one Filipina-as well as five construction workers and two interior decorators.
Building profile and fire response
Wang Fuk Court, constructed in the 1980s in the northeastern Tai Po district, housed approximately 4,600 residents, according to 2021 census data. Nearly 40% of occupants were aged 65 or older.
Firefighters battled the blaze for over a day, with 37-year-old Ho Wai-ho losing his life during the operation. Four victims were pronounced dead after hospital admission, while 164 were recovered at the scene.
Arrests and ongoing investigation
City leader John Lee announced Wednesday that more than 30 individuals have been arrested on charges including manslaughter, fraud, and corruption. Authorities continue probing the fire's origin.
Officials previously suggested that substandard window mesh may have accelerated the fire's spread.
Identification process concluded
Security Secretary Chris Tang stated that all victim identification procedures have been completed, finalizing the death toll at 168.
