More people from around Hong Kong went to Tai Po on Sunday to pay their respects to those affected by the massive fire at Wang Fuk Court.

Authorities said the death toll stood at 146.

In the morning, mourners brought flowers and cards to lay in a park nearby, as they struggled to hold back their tears.

A domestic helper said her friend, Tauwadi, was among the many still unaccounted for.

"She lives here. I kept calling her phone, but we couldn't find her. Her brother is also looking for her from Indonesia, but there's nothing," the helper said.

A local resident, Ms Ng, said there was much grief within the community.

"I hope Wang Fuk Court residents can recover from the pain as soon as possible. We all live in this community that we love and grew up together," she told reporters.

"We can feel their pain, and we hope there will be a reasonable explanation as to what happened."

A man from Tseung Kwan O said while he knew there were condolence books set up across the city's 18 districts, he wanted to go to Tai Po in person to show his sincerity in paying his respects.

"I hope residents won't give up in the face of adversity," said an old man who lives in Sham Shui Po.

Crowds continued pouring into Tai Po on Sunday afternoon, with mourners forming long queues.

Many, including a young boy, waited patiently without complaint.

“I waited for more than 30 minutes. But I stuck it out because I want the victims to rest in peace up in heaven,” he said.

A father who grew up in the area brought his daughter.

He said: “I want to let her know that such a serious incident happened here. I want to bring her to where I grew up to send our blessings together."

Many also flocked to Sha Tin Fire Station to pay tribute to 37-year-old firefighter Ho Wai-ho, who lost his life battling the blaze.

Visitors placed flowers, paper cranes and messages of gratitude outside the station.

Meanwhile, survivors of the Wang Fuk Court fire have been collecting essentials at the central supply station in Tai Po Community Centre.

Residents told RTHK that basically all essentials are available for free, including clothes, food, drinks, heat mugs, and even strollers and suitcases.

One of them, surnamed Leung, said she was really grateful to all the donors and frontline staff.

“I want to thank every kind person in Hong Kong who donated. I also want to thank the government workers who have worked so hard and helped us arrange everything,” she said.
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Last updated: 2025-11-30 HKT 17:17