A devastating fire swept through multiple high-rise residential buildings in Tai Po, Hong Kong, leading to a reported death toll of at least 36 individuals, while 279 others remain unaccounted for. Eyewitness accounts describe chaotic scenes of smoke and panic as residents attempted to escape the flames, which severely damaged the complex. Emergency services are continuing their search and rescue operations as concerns grow about the possibility of more individuals trapped inside the engulfed structures. The incident raises serious questions about fire safety measures in densely populated housing estates.