Hong Kong SAR's death toll rises to 160

Deadliest residential blaze since 1980

The fire, which swept through a high-rise apartment complex late last month, has now surpassed any residential building blaze worldwide since 1980. Authorities initially reported 159 deaths after completing searches of all affected buildings.

Forensic testing reveals additional victim

Police Commissioner Joe Chow announced that forensic testing determined a previously counted set of remains actually belonged to two individuals. Officers also found a piece of “suspected human bone,” which is undergoing testing. So far, 120 victims have been identified through DNA or fingerprint analysis.

Renovation materials likely fueled the fire

Authorities said the estate was under major renovation at the time of the fire, and the use of non–fire-resistant protective netting on bamboo scaffolding contributed significantly to the rapid spread of flames. Foam boards attached to windows also intensified the blaze as it climbed the towers.

Ongoing searches and safety inspections

Police will begin removing the remaining scaffolding and netting to continue inspections and check for additional victims. Six people remain unaccounted for, and officers believe three of them lived in the affected Wang Fuk Court complex.

Investigations and arrests

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee has launched a judge-led independent committee to investigate the disaster. Police have arrested 15 individuals from various construction companies on manslaughter charges, along with six others connected to fire alarms that failed to activate.