Hongfu Garden Hearing | Motherless Family Member: Hope to Find the Truth, Every Neighbor Feels Guilty

Today, the last witness to testify was Luo Xiaoqi, a resident of Hongfu Garden, who mentioned that she was not at home during the incident. However, her mother, who lived on the 8th floor of Hongchang Pavilion, ultimately lost her life. Luo stated that around 3 p.m. that day, her mother sent a message in the family group chat on a communication app mentioning the fire. She immediately called her mother, but about five minutes later, her mother said that her home was surrounded by flames and thick smoke and that she couldn’t escape. She left a message saying, “You and your brother live well,” then hung up. After that, there was no further contact. Luo also pointed out that she did not hear any alarm bells during the entire process and questioned why such a large fire could occur in just a few minutes without any sirens or water sources to aid firefighting.

Luo Xiaoqi described her gratitude for the authorities’ investigation, saying that as a family member, she really wants to find out the truth of the incident. She admitted that she had no expectations for the Independent Commission of Inquiry, as she was unsure whether it would be conducted seriously. Now, she feels confident that she can handle it. Luo believes the incident involves multiple reasons, “losing one person is already too many,” and this time, 168 people lost their lives. Even if it can awaken the people of Hong Kong, it would come at a “very high cost.” She hopes to identify and quickly address legal and other loopholes to prevent further sacrifices. She said that every neighbor feels guilty when they meet, but she also questions whether the authorities and the builders should bear responsibility and deliver justice.

Judge Lu Qikang responded by expressing condolences and said that the only thing that can be done is to handle the case with full fairness and to reassure the other party. He also noted that the media has been cooperative but called for respect for victims who do not wish to be interviewed. The next hearing will be continued on the morning of next Monday.