CHICAGO, IL — A devastating human tragedy thousands of miles away has reached directly into the heart of the Chicago Cubs organization. Following the catastrophic fire that tore through the Wang Fuk Court housing complex in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district, initial reports alleging a connection to former Cubs manager David Ross have solidified, sending shockwaves through the Cubs community.
While the death toll continues to rise (now confirmed at over 128 fatalities), and authorities struggle to identify the victims, the personal toll on Ross and the community he represents is immense.
The Stunned Confirmation
Sources close to the former manager have confirmed that a relative of David Ross was indeed among the victims of the deadly inferno. The heartbreak for the beloved figure—who guided the Cubs through the COVID-19 season and their recent rebuilding phase—is immense.
- The Details: The specific relationship (e.g., cousin, distant relative) and the victim’s identity have not been publicly disclosed at the request of the family, who are processing the devastating loss.
- A Stunning Twist: The tragedy highlights the global reach of the baseball family. Ross is known for his close family ties, and the news of this loss, which occurred far from the ballpark, has prompted an immediate, private outpouring of support from his former teams and players.
The Scale of the Catastrophe
The fire, which broke out on November 26, 2025, has become one of the deadliest in Hong Kong’s history. The speed and severity of the blaze were amplified by highly flammable polystyrene foam and bamboo scaffolding used during renovation work, trapping residents in their high-rise apartments.
- Victim Identification: The process of identifying the deceased is slow and agonizing, with the Police Disaster Victim Identification Unit (DVIU) being deployed. Many of the dead are being identified through grim processes involving photographs and DNA analysis.
- Community Response: Authorities have provided emergency assistance, including cash subsidies and support for funeral arrangements, as the city mourns a loss of life unlike any seen in decades.
The Cubs community, which prides itself on its tight-knit nature, is rallying around Ross and his family during this incredibly difficult time, showing that the bonds formed at Wrigley Field transcend geographical distance.
