Key Facts
• A massive fire broke out in a high-rise building in Hong Kong on November 26.
• Firefighting efforts concluded by November 28, with 128 confirmed deaths.
• Approximately 150 individuals remain unaccounted for as of November 29.
• A police special unit of 600 officers began search and identification efforts on November 29.
• High temperatures in parts of the building may delay investigations by 3–4 weeks.
• The fire likely started near protective nets during repair work and spread via flammable materials.
• Authorities are investigating potential safety management issues during the repair work.
• Memorials have been set up near the site, with many paying respects with flowers.
• The Hong Kong government declared three days of mourning starting November 29.
• Flags at government buildings are at half-mast, and officials, including Chief Executive John Lee, observed moments of silence.
Summary
A devastating fire in a Hong Kong high-rise on November 26 claimed 128 lives, with 150 people still unaccounted for. Firefighting efforts ended on November 28, and a police special unit of 600 officers began search and identification operations on November 29. Investigations suggest the fire started near protective nets during repair work and spread rapidly due to flammable materials. Authorities are examining safety management during the repairs. High temperatures in parts of the building may delay investigations by up to four weeks. Memorials have been established near the site, and the Hong Kong government declared three days of mourning, with flags at half-mast and officials observing moments of silence.
