HONG KONG -- The independent committee set up to investigate the deadly residential fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, Hong Kong, held its first public hearing on Thursday, taking evidence on matters outlined in its terms of reference.

According to the committee's latest announcement, a total of 38 stakeholders have so far been admitted as interested parties to the hearings. They are allowed to deliver opening and closing submissions, raise questions and call witnesses.

The list includes multiple government departments of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), seven Wang Fuk Court residents, and several members of the housing estate's former owners' corporation.

The committee examined facts through oral testimony, written submissions and other evidence presented by witnesses, laying a key foundation for its future report and recommendations.

Ms. Lee, a flat owner who used to live in Wang Tai House, Wang Fuk Court, told reporters on Thursday that she hoped the hearing would shed light on the cause of the fire, identify the responsible party, and explain why the blaze had spread so rapidly and resulted in such heavy casualties.

In December 2025, HKSAR Chief Executive John Lee announced the formation of the independent committee, chaired by Justice David Lok, to look into the cause of the fire, establish accountability and put forward preventive proposals. The committee is required to submit a report within nine months of its formation.

The first round of hearings will run from March 19 to April 2, with a total of eight sessions. Around 360 public seats will be available for each hearing, with roughly half reserved for Wang Fuk Court residents.