Tai Po fire inquiry: 91 among 168 victims died from inhaling smoke, mass casualties ‘totally avoidable’ (opens original article in a new tab)

A public inquiry into the Tai Po fire concluded that 91 of 168 victims died from smoke inhalation, with experts stating the high death toll was 'totally avoidable' due to human error and unsafe building modifications.

• 91 of 168 victims died from smoke inhalation
• Fire alarms were turned off due to human error
• Toxic gases spread quickly due to replaced fireproof windows with wooden boards
• Experts concluded the high death toll was 'totally avoidable'