BREAKING NEWS: Just hours ago, a tremendous fire broke out in…See more
The Fire: Flames Engulf Scaffolding Along Connaught Road Central
According to reports, the fire began around 4:24 p.m. at the Chinachem Tower on Connaught Road Central. Within minutes, flames spread rapidly across the bamboo scaffolding that covered the exterior of the skyscraper. Witnesses described seeing bright orange flames racing up the side of the building, while debris fell onto the street below.
Videos circulating online showed emergency crews rushing to the scene as dozens of occupants were evacuated from the offices and shops inside. Firefighters battled the blaze for nearly five hours before bringing it under control at approximately 9:13 p.m., according to Fire Services Department Deputy Divisional Commander Lo Shui-sang.
“The fire was mainly located on the façade of the building. The inside was not seriously affected,” Lo told reporters during a press briefing. He confirmed that a fire investigation team had been established to determine the exact cause of the incident and whether any foul play was involved.
Four People Hospitalized, Two in Serious Condition
Authorities confirmed that four individuals were hospitalized following the fire, with injuries ranging from burns to smoke inhalation and impact trauma.
Among them was a 23-year-old man who initially suffered critical head injuries but was later upgraded to a “serious” condition by Sunday evening. A 55-year-old man who had been listed as critical on Saturday was reported to be in a stable condition by midday Sunday.
Two other victims—a 35-year-old woman and a 65-year-old man-also remained in stable condition, according to updates released by local health officials.
The Hospital Authority stated that all four victims were receiving continuous monitoring and treatment at nearby hospitals, while additional medical staff were deployed to assist emergency operations during the incident.
Buildings Department: “No Structural Hazard Detected”
In a statement released Sunday, the Buildings Department said its inspection team had noted no structural hazards at Chinachem Tower after a thorough site assessment.
“While the fire caused external damage, our staff observed that the building remains structurally sound,” the department said. However, they noted that some loose materials on the outer façade needed immediate removal to prevent secondary accidents.
The department also confirmed that all protective nets, tarpaulins, and scaffolding coverings used during ongoing renovation work were up to official safety standards. Minor works on the exterior walls and air-conditioning brackets had previously been approved under Hong Kong’s building codes.
Nevertheless, officials said a follow-up investigation is underway to determine if any regulations were breached, particularly regarding fire safety compliance during construction or renovation activities.
Expert Opinion: Sparks, Cigarettes, or Construction Work?
Former Fire Services Department assistant divisional officer Leung Kam-tak, now working as a private fire consultant, shared insights with NowTV on Sunday.
I assume the fire started from a low height,” Leung said, suggesting several possible causes. “We need to investigate whether welding was taking place during the renovation work, as sparks could easily ignite nearby materials.”
