At least 55 people have been killed in Hong Kong’s devastating residential fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po.
The fire, which erupted on Wednesday afternoon, quickly escalated into the city’s deadliest in decades.
Thick smoke filled the skyline as bamboo scaffolding surrounding the buildings caught fire, sending burning debris crashing to the ground and forcing thousands of residents to evacuate.
Authorities said the blaze began on exterior scaffolding before racing up several of the 31-storey blocks. Residents reported chaotic scenes as they fled down darkened stairwells, with smoke so thick that visibility was near zero.
The estate, home to nearly 5,000 residents, had been covered in bamboo scaffolding and plastic netting for ongoing renovation works — materials now under scrutiny for their fire-retardant properties.
Questions over safety standards escalated after authorities arrested three individuals linked to the construction company responsible for the refurbishment.
Police said the men, including two company directors and a consultant, were detained on suspicion of manslaughter amid concerns that substandard or flammable materials may have contributed to the speed and scale of the fire’s spread.
For those looking to help, donate, or contribute towards victims of the fire, please reach out to:
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Hong Kong Red Cross (HKRC) — Donations can be given via their online donation portal, or use Faster Payment System (FPS), PayMe, AlipayHK, or bank transfer. FPS ID: 164279317.
- Bank Transfer Details:HSBC: 567-650155-023
HASE: 267-175123-002
BOC: 012-806-00003231
BEA: 015-514-40-472999 - Designated Donation Period: From now until 10 December 2025 *Please send the screen capture of donation transaction history with name, telephone number, address, donor ID (if any) and mark “TPFEA9900” to relief@redcross.org.hk.
- Bank Transfer Details:HSBC: 567-650155-023
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Sheng Kung Hui Welfare Council (SKHWC) — Their “Act of Love 1126 Fire Disaster Support Fund” is raising funds to provide cash grants, essential supplies, and temporary accommodation to affected families. Donations are tax-deductible for amounts HK$100 or above.
- H.K.S.K.H. The Church of Our Saviour Social Service Centre – Jockey Club Family Express is also offering:
- A safe rest space
- Drinking water & light refreshments
- Mobile phone charging stations
- Emotional support & counselling services
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24-hour support hotline: 2651 1998
- H.K.S.K.H. The Church of Our Saviour Social Service Centre – Jockey Club Family Express is also offering:
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Crossroads Foundation Hong Kong — They’re coordinating supplies (blankets, bedding, basic household items) for displaced families; you can also donate cash to support their resettlement and relief work.
- Items urgently needed:
• Hygiene products (must be new): toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, face cloths, small towels, disposable razors, washing powder, feminine sanitary napkins
• Clean, washed blankets, bedding, pillows
• Single mattresses and foldable beds
• Household electrical items (must be new): rice cookers, induction stoves, washing machines
• Kitchen pots and pans (must be new)• Note: Crossroads are not collecting clothing or food at this time - WAREHOUSE LOCATION: Building 32, Crossroads Village, 2 Castle Peak Road, Tuen Mun. Our warehouse is open Tuesdays to Saturdays, 10am to 5pm.
- Items urgently needed:
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Feeding Hong Kong — Accepting donations (funds or long-lasting food items) to help families who’ve lost homes and cooking facilities; you can send food items to their warehouse.
- Items requested:
- Quick, ready-to-eat items like crackers, biscuits, cup noodles, instant soup, breakfast cereal and UHT milk are essential for those who need quick, no-cook options.
- Long-dated food items, such as rice, canned goods, and other packaged, shelf-stable products will be essential for families in the weeks and months ahead as they begin to recover.
- Items requested:
- ImpactHK – They are offering safe emergency shelter for people and families affected by the fires. Your donations can help them continue this vital work. If you or someone you know needs temporary accommodation, please reach out to them at:
+852 5341 6670
WhatsApp: +852 5943 7124
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HKSCDA – Providing free veterinary support for cats and dogs affected by the Wang Fu Court fire in Tai Po, offering complimentary check-ups and treatment to help injured pets recover as quickly as possible.
Service Information:
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Hours: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
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Dates: November 27 and 28
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Booking (WhatsApp): 9864 1089
If your pet has been impacted, don’t hesitate to get in touch so they can receive the care they need. Click here for further details.
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