The death toll from a devastating apartment complex fire in Hong Kong's Tai Po area has risen to 65 as of Thursday, November 27, 2025, according to local authorities. The blaze, which broke out in a densely populated residential building, marks one of the deadliest fire incidents in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) in recent decades.
Emergency crews worked through the night to contain the flames and rescue trapped residents, with over 120 people hospitalized. HKSAR Chief Executive John Lee expressed "profound grief" over the tragedy and announced a comprehensive review of fire safety regulations across older buildings. Investigators are currently examining electrical systems and structural compliance as potential causes.
The incident has prompted renewed calls for urban renewal initiatives across Asian cities facing similar aging infrastructure challenges. Regional leaders from the Chinese mainland and Macao have offered assistance, while the International Federation of Red Cross societies is coordinating relief efforts for displaced families.
