A massive fire broke out in several skyscrapers in Hong Kong (2 photos + 6 videos)
This is the deadliest fire in Hong Kong history, according to media reports. The death toll is likely in the hundreds, given that nearly 300 people are still missing. 
On the afternoon of November 26, a fire broke out in Hong Kong's Van Fook Court residential complex, consisting of eight skyscrapers and home to over 4,600 people. The towers were reportedly covered with bamboo scaffolding, and flammable materials were used on the facade during renovations.
A fire broke out in one of the high-rise buildings, quickly consuming 32 floors, and then spread to neighboring buildings. Negligence is the preliminary cause of the tragedy. Three employees of a construction company carrying out renovations have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter.
According to the latest reports, 75 people, including one firefighter, died in the fire. Unfortunately, the death toll is constantly being updated, and the number is growing. 76 people were injured, including 11 firefighters. 279 residents of the complex are still missing. According to the South China Morning Post, 62 people remain trapped in the high-rise towers of the residential complex.
According to media reports, the fire has not yet been contained. The fire has become the deadliest in the city's history. The last time a fire in Hong Kong reached Level 5 (the highest level of fire danger) was in 2008. A nightclub fire killed four people and injured 55.
Local authorities consider the rapid spread of the fire suspicious and have launched a criminal investigation.
Vladimir Putin has already sent a telegram to Xi Jinping expressing his condolences over the tragic consequences of the fire.
"Dear Mr. Chairman, please accept my deepest condolences over the tragic consequences of the fire in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. Please convey my sympathy and support to the families and friends of the victims, as well as my wishes for a speedy recovery to all those injured," the telegram reads.
