## Fire Overview
A devastating fire swept through a high-rise residential building in Hong Kong on Wednesday, claiming 128 lives. Emergency services continued to search the scene as officials stated that the building’s fire alarm systems were “not functioning properly” at the time of the blaze.
## Investigation and Official Statements
Authorities have not yet pinpointed the exact cause of the fire. Preliminary reports suggest that several alarm systems failed, delaying the evacuation of residents trapped on upper floors.
> “We are conducting a full technical evaluation to identify why the safety systems did not activate as intended,” said a government spokesperson.
The fire department reported that rescue operations lasted through the night, with more than 200 firefighters deployed. Some survivors described smoke spreading rapidly through stairwells and corridors.
## Casualties and Response
Hospitals across the city are treating dozens of people for smoke inhalation and burn injuries. Officials confirmed that many victims were elderly residents unable to evacuate quickly.
The government has promised an independent inquiry into both the building’s safety compliance and the city’s broader residential fire prevention protocols.
## Public Reaction
The incident has sparked criticism of the oversight of older residential towers in Hong Kong, many of which still rely on outdated safety systems. Civil engineers and housing advocates have urged authorities to accelerate modernization programs to prevent another tragedy.
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**Author’s Summary:** The Hong Kong high-rise fire killed 128 people after alarm systems failed, prompting an ongoing investigation into safety oversights and aging infrastructure.
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BBC — 2025-11-28