Hong Kong: Search and rescue efforts at a major apartment fire in Hong Kong are expected to end soon as the confirmed death toll has risen to at least 94. The fire, which started on Wednesday afternoon in Wang Fuk Court in the Tai Po area, is now one of the city’s deadliest disasters in decades.

Firefighters continued to enter damaged and smoke filled apartments to check whether anyone remained trapped. Officials said that around 25 emergency calls still needed to be verified, and the search will continue until every unit in the affected buildings has been inspected.

The residential complex was undergoing renovation when the fire began. The buildings were covered with bamboo scaffolding and plastic mesh, materials that authorities believe helped the flames spread quickly.

Investigators are also focusing on the use of foam insulation and other construction materials that may have been highly flammable.

Police have arrested three people linked to Prestige Construction and Engineering Company. They face accusations of negligence and manslaughter related to safety failures during the renovation work. Officers have seized company documents, computers and phones as part of the investigation.

More than 900 residents have been forced to leave their homes and are staying in temporary shelters. Some families are sleeping in community centers and nearby malls because they have nowhere else to go.

Many of the residents affected were elderly, which rescue workers said may have contributed to the high number of deaths. Officials and safety experts are now calling for stronger rules on building renovation, fire safety measures and the future use of bamboo scaffolding in Hong Kong.

The government has announced a relief fund to support the survivors and families of victims. Public anger continues to grow as people demand answers and accountability for the tragedy.

As the final phase of rescue work continues, families are waiting anxiously for closure. Authorities say a full report on the cause and failures that led to the disaster will be released after investigations are completed.