A fire in a 16-story Hong Kong residential building kills at least 5 people and injures dozens

The blaze began on the first and second floors of the 16-storey building, authorities said.

A fire broke out in a large predominantly residential building in Hong Kong on Wednesday morning, claiming the lives of at least five individuals and injuring another 36.

Approximately 250 residents were successfully rescued from the New Lucky House located in Hong Kong's Jordan neighborhood, with firefighting efforts managing to extinguish the flames.

According to the fire services department, the fire originated on the first and second floors of the 16-story building, which housed a gym and licensed guest rooms. Further investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the fire, authorities stated.

Tragically, the five fatalities occurred as individuals attempted to escape the building during the blaze.

Constructed in 1964, the New Lucky House comprises 200 units.

Hong Kong’s Chief Executive John Lee conveyed his condolences to the families of the victims and instructed relevant departments to provide assistance to all those impacted by the fire.