Wang Cheong House Blaze Claims 128 Lives as Investigation Uncovers Alarm Failures and Corruption Suspicions
A devastating fire at Hong Kong's Wang Cheong House has claimed 128 lives, with 200 missing. Officials face manslaughter charges amid probes into non-compliant materials and alarm failures.
Overview
The death toll from the catastrophic fire at Hong Kong's Wang Cheong House has tragically risen to 128, making it the city's deadliest blaze since 1948, with approximately 200 people still missing.
Three construction company officials have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter, as authorities investigate the rapid spread of the fire and potential corruption related to the renovation project.
Investigations suggest non-compliant materials, including mesh used during renovations, and non-functioning fire alarms in all eight buildings contributed to the high death toll and rapid fire engulfment.
Over 1,000 firefighters battled the five-alarm blaze for approximately 24 hours, conducting apartment-by-apartment searches, with one firefighter, Ho Wai-ho, dying in the line of duty.
At least 79 people, including 11 firefighters, were injured, and about 900 individuals were housed in temporary shelters, while 89 recovered bodies remain unidentified.
Analysis
Center-leaning sources cover this story neutrally, focusing on factual reporting of a tragic event. They prioritize conveying the scale of the disaster, the ongoing rescue efforts, and the unfolding investigation into its causes. The reporting attributes information clearly to officials and avoids loaded language, presenting a balanced account of the incident and its aftermath.
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FAQ
The rapid spread of the fire was due to the use of non-compliant materials such as Styrofoam boards covering windows near lift lobbies, which are highly flammable, and protective netting and tarpaulins that did not meet fire-resistance standards.
Three men, including two company directors and one construction consultant aged between 52 and 68, were arrested on suspicion of manslaughter related to negligence during renovation works that contributed to the fire.
Over 1,000 firefighters battled the five-alarm blaze for about 24 hours, conducting apartment-by-apartment searches. Despite their efforts, one firefighter, Ho Wai-ho, died in the line of duty and 11 other firefighters were injured.
As of the latest reports, 128 people have died, approximately 200 remain missing, about 79 people including 11 firefighters were injured, and around 900 residents have been housed temporarily in shelters. Additionally, 89 bodies remain unidentified.
Authorities have launched investigations into fire safety violations, the use of inflammable and non-compliant materials during renovations, and possible corruption involving the construction company responsible. The Independent Commission Against Corruption is also investigating due to significant public interest.
History
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