Hong Kong SAR Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu and several senior government officials held a joint press conference on the evening of the 5th. Among them, Secretary for Health Lo Chung-mau announced that all 79 people injured in the Tai Po Hong Fuk Court fire have been declared out of danger.
According to Xinhua News Agency, Lo Chung-mau said that 79 people injured in the Hong Fuk Court fire were treated in different public hospitals, with 19 of them once listed as in critical condition, including those with severe burns, severe smoke inhalation, and respiratory injuries. After treatment, all those previously in critical condition have improved. As of 6:00 pm on the 5th, 49 people had been discharged, with 30 remaining in the hospital. None are now in critical condition: 6 remain in serious condition, and 24 are stable. Medical staff will continue to care for all the injured, hoping they recover soon.
John Lee stated that following the fire, the SAR government is highly concerned about the mental health support for victims and the community. He has instructed relevant departments to begin work and provide mental health support to victims and those affected.
John Lee said an independent committee will be established to investigate the incident, get to the truth, hold those responsible to account, and promote reforms. He emphasized the need to find out the truth as soon as possible so everyone can fully understand the incident and promptly reform to strengthen the system and fill any gaps.
John Lee said the SAR government will work closely with the Legislative Council to promote reforms and will propose a government motion at the first meeting of the new Legislative Council session to discuss how to support the Hong Fuk Court fire victims and restore normalcy.
On the 5th, the "Disaster Victim Identification Unit" searched the safe areas outside the building and near the collapsed scaffolding but have not found any remains for now. The number of deceased remains at 159.