Hong Kong: At least 44 dead and hundreds missing in apartment complex fire

Hong Kong is facing its deadliest fire in decades after a blaze tore through a housing complex in Tai Po, killing at least 44 people and leaving 279 residents missing.

Crews worked through the night, pulling people from burning high-rise flats as flames moved across seven of the eight towers.

By Thursday morning, parts of the fire were coming under control, but hot spots kept crews on alert. Officials said the blaze began on external scaffolding at a 32-storey block before wind pushed it inside and into nearby buildings. The 1980s complex, home to almost 4,800 people and undergoing major renovation, was quickly evacuated.

Police have arrested three men on suspicion of manslaughter.