Grateful survivors in Hong Kong are trying to piece their lives together after a massive apartment fire left at least 128 people dead. The blaze, which erupted Wednesday at the Wang Fuk Court complex in Tai Po, burned for more than 40 hours and destroyed seven of the eight high-rise buildings.

William Li, 40, was home when he got an unusual call from his wife. She told him a friend said their building was on fire. However, there were no alarms, no smoke, and no burning smell in his second-floor unit. Because of that, Li changed out of his pajamas before stepping outside. Yet, eight minutes later, he opened his door and was met with thick black smoke.

“Everything went black,” he said. “I knew I was in serious trouble.”

Meanwhile, the fire raced upward through bamboo scaffolding wrapped in nylon netting. It ignited polystyrene window panels and shattered glass, which allowed flames to enter the building. Strong winds then pushed the fire from block to block.

Authorities are now investigating whether the construction materials met safety rules. They are also examining why alarms failed and why foam panels covered the windows. Police have already arrested several construction directors and consultants, while anti-corruption officials detained additional subcontractors.

Residents across the community describe the same fear and confusion. Ding Chan, 70, was at work when she heard the news. By the time she returned, flames were already sweeping toward her building. Her home of more than 40 years is now likely lost. She and her husband are staying in a hotel but do not know what happens next.

“I haven’t slept for two nights,” she said. “Where am I going to stay?”

More than 900 residents fled to emergency shelters. Volunteers, nurses, and counselors poured into Tai Po to help. Even so, the long-term needs remain unclear.

Li shared his story online to help others heal. He sheltered two neighbors, blocked smoke with wet towels, and waited for rescue. Firefighters reached him two hours later using a ladder on the scaffolding. After getting his neighbors out first, he escaped through the window before debris began to fall.

Later that night, he reunited with his family in an emotional moment filled with relief and tears.

Like many survivors, Li is grateful yet uncertain about the future. “Hong Kong people are compassionate,” he said. “We will try to rebuild together.”

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