Hong Kong Mid-Levels Fire Leaves 3 Critical, Police Probe Drug Link, May 31

A fire broke out at Hui Tsui Yuan apartment building on Robinson Road in Hong Kong’s Mid-Levels on May 30 at 10:53 a.m., leaving 3 people in critical condition. Firefighters rescued 1 man and 2 women from the unit. Police found drug paraphernalia inside and suspect drug use or smoking triggered the fire. The incident forced about 50 residents to evacuate.

How the Fire Started and Spread

Firefighters arrived 5 minutes after the 10:53 a.m. call and deployed 9 fire trucks, 7 ambulances, and 59 personnel. They extinguished the fire by 11:17 a.m. The main unit door was blocked by a large sofa, making entry difficult. Firefighters found 2 separate fire points inside the master bedroom and discovered locked doors in the hallway and master bedroom. Police found damaged lighter gas canisters in the master bedroom, which may have fueled the fire’s spread.

Police Find Drug Tools at Scene

Officers discovered drug paraphernalia in the master bedroom and another room, including glass pipes known as ice bongs, plastic tubing, lighters, and lighter refill canisters. Police do not rule out that occupants were smoking or using drugs when the fire started. In the master bathroom, the 1 man and 1 woman had placed bed sheets and towels against the door, suggesting they tried to escape or shelter in place after discovering the fire. Traffic was disrupted along Robinson Road toward Western District during the response.

Three Victims in Critical Condition

The 3 injured are a 64-year-old Hong Kong resident, a 31-year-old mainland Chinese woman, and a 37-year-old mainland Chinese woman. All inhaled heavy smoke and lost consciousness. Two of them suffered second-degree burns on both hands. They were taken to Mary Hospital and Tung Wah Hospital for emergency treatment and remain in intensive care. Police and fire officials held a briefing on the incident.

Investigation Underway

The Central District Criminal Investigation Unit is leading the probe into the fire’s cause. The apartment is about 1,500 square feet and has been rented for 2 years. Authorities will question the victims once their condition stabilizes. The building holds a valid fire safety certificate, and firefighters confirmed the building’s fire suppression system was operational during the response.

Final Thoughts

Police suspect drug use or smoking caused the Mid-Levels fire that left 3 people critical. The investigation continues as authorities await victim statements once they stabilize.

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