Hong Kong Expands Criminal Investigation After Deadly High-Rise Fire

Hong Kong authorities have made additional arrests as the investigation into last week’s deadly tower block fire intensifies, marking a new phase in a tragedy that has shaken the city. Officials also confirmed that search efforts for missing residents have been formally concluded after emergency teams completed a full sweep of the damaged structure.

The blaze, which tore through a densely populated residential building, left numerous casualties and displaced dozens of families. In the days since, fire investigators and police units have been working jointly to determine how the flames spread so quickly and why so many residents were unable to escape.

Authorities announced that several more individuals connected to the building’s operations and maintenance were detained for questioning, adding to a growing list of suspects. Investigators are examining potential safety violations, including reports of blocked exits, malfunctioning alarms, and unauthorized modifications inside the building.

Residents who survived the fire have described chaotic scenes as smoke filled stairwells and emergency lighting failed, leaving many trapped in their units. Some were rescued from windows and balconies, while others were forced to navigate thick smoke to reach firefighters.

Officials say the decision to end the search for missing residents was made after rescue teams reached all previously inaccessible areas and verified that no additional occupants were inside the structure. Recovery teams have now shifted to structural assessment and evidence collection.

The government has pledged full transparency and promised that anyone found responsible for negligence will face legal consequences. The incident has also revived public debate about building safety oversight in Hong Kong, particularly in older residential districts where maintenance standards can vary widely.

As the investigation continues, displaced residents are being housed in temporary accommodations, and community groups are organizing support efforts for affected families. Authorities expect to release further updates as the case develops and more evidence is analyzed.

Author: M.J