According to Euronews, nine of the deceased died at the scene, and four died after being taken to the hospital. The fire spread to several floors in a short time because the building was surrounded by bamboo scaffolding for repair purposes.
128 fire engines and 57 ambulances were deployed to extinguish the fire. Fire Services Director Andy Yeung stated that one firefighter was among the victims of the incident, and another was being treated for heat stroke.
The police received many reports about people trapped in the buildings. District Council member Lo Hiu-fung said that the majority of them could be elderly citizens.
Reports indicate that the complex consists of eight blocks, comprising approximately 2000 households and 4800 residents. Temporary shelters have been set up for those who have been evacuated.
