William Li, 40, has struggled with being called a “hero” after helping his neighbours escape the deadly fire that tore through Wang Fuk Court, the Hong Kong block of flats where he had lived since birth. Instead of pride, Li is haunted by guilt that he could have saved more lives in the blaze that claimed at least 159 people.
“My heart breaks every time someone calls me a hero,” he said, breaking down in tears.
A week after the disaster, firefighters are still searching the seven burnt-out high-rises for the remains of 30 residents. Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire and why more people could not escape. Preliminary findings suggest non-fire-resistant netting had been installed around the building, and the fire alarms were malfunctioning.
Li recounted that he was unaware of the severity of the fire when his wife called to alert him. He spent nearly 10 minutes packing belongings before stepping into a corridor filled with smoke. Using wet towels to block the smoke, Li located two neighbours by touch and helped drag them to safety inside his flat.
In another block, 66-year-old Bai Shui Lin reportedly saved at least three families but tragically did not survive herself. Her sons identified her body over the weekend.
Despite the efforts of Li and others, some voices calling for help were lost, and he was unable to save everyone. “I feel very guilty,” he admitted.
Li and a neighbouring couple eventually realized they needed to escape themselves. Fire exits were blocked or locked, and jumping from windows was too dangerous due to flames and explosions. Hours later, firefighters rescued them via an aerial ladder. Li insisted that others be evacuated first, despite his younger age.
After reaching the hospital, Li’s exhaustion and trauma became evident. “I no longer had any strength in me… I really wanted to wash away the smell of the fire,” he said.
Determined to confront the aftermath, Li has agreed to multiple interviews, hoping to shed light on the tragedy. “I hope many people will come forward to help find the truth. I hope Wang Fuk Court residents will be given answers and justice,” he said.
