Hong Kong Fire Updates: 44 Killed, Hundreds Missing | World News

According to ANI’s report based on CNN, the death toll has risen to 44 people and hundreds are missing due to a massive fire that broke out in several high-rise towers in a residential complex in Hong Kong.
While firefighters are fighting the fire, they are also trying to reach citizens trapped on the upper floors.

Authorities announced early Thursday that three people had been arrested in connection with the incident, including two company directors and a consultant from a construction company. Police charged them with “gross negligence” after inspectors discovered highly flammable polystyrene sheets covering the windows of many flats. Authorities also suspect that other construction materials used at the site, including nets, canvas sheets and plastic sheeting, did not meet mandatory safety standards.

Seven of the complex’s eight towers continued to burn for hours after the fire started, including many elderly residents.

The fire in Tai Po district has been burning for about 16 hours. Firefighters concentrated their operations on the most severely damaged towers and said flames in many other buildings were now “under control” although they had not yet been extinguished.

How did the fire spread?

Fire Services Director Andy Yeung confirmed crews found polystyrene panels covering the windows and described the situation as highly unusual.

“These sheets are extremely flammable and the fire spread very quickly,” he said.

(with ANI entries)

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee said housing authorities will examine whether the building’s protective coverings meet fire safety requirements. “We will hold those responsible accountable according to the law,” he said.