The deadliest fire in high-rise buildings in Hong Kong claimed 55 lives, and 279 people were reportedly missing. Authorities are still engaged in the evacuation of residents from the apartment complex.

At least 123 people were injured in the incident, including eight firefighters.

Blaze Spread from scaffolding

The blaze reportedly started from the exterior scaffolding of a 32-storey tower and swiftly spread inside the building and to other adjacent apartments. It is being stated that windy conditions were likely a major factor in its spread in the housing complex in the Tai Po district.

Nearly 4,800 residents were accommodated in almost 2,000 apartments across 8 buildings, which were reportedly built in the 1980s and were due for renovation.

According to the Fire Services Department, fire at four of the buildings was brought under control on Thursday morning.

Possible use of unsafe exterior materials

Probe officials suspect that some materials on the exterior did not match the required safety standards, and the spread of the fire was not normal.

Officials also found highly inflammable material, Styrofoam, outside the window of each floor near the lift lobby. It is believed that the construction company might have installed it.

Three people arrested

Hong Kong Police said they arrested three men - two directors and a consultant of a construction company - on suspicion of manslaughter, and accused them of "gross negligence." Authorities will also investigate whether building materials complied with fire safety standards.

A number of major Chinese corporations have joined the donation drive for victims of the deadly Hong Kong fire, as per CNN.

Tech giant Alibaba announced its first batch of donations totaling 20 million Hong Kong dollars (USD 2.6 million) to support fire rescue efforts and provide transitional housing, essential supplies, and emotional support.