A devastating fire at a housing estate in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district has left 44 people dead, with one firefighter losing his life in the line of duty.
The firefighter, Ho Wai-ho, was reportedly scheduled to marry his girlfriend of more than ten years next month, a story that has gripped the city with heartbreak as tributes continue pouring in.
Love story cut short
According to CaVa, Ho and his fiancée shared a long and devoted relationship.
A photo on Ho’s Instagram, showing him in his firefighting uniform with his fiancée in his arms, has especially struck a chord. In the caption, he wrote:
Thank you. Even if you find me annoying, I’ll still say ‘Love U’ a hundred times. Keep smiling like this forever.”
That message, once playful and sweet, has now taken on a heartbreaking weight.
Died during rescue operation
According to ThePaper, Ho was deployed at 3:01pm yesterday to assist in battling the massive blaze at the Wang Fuk Court housing estate.
Less than 30 minutes after entering the burning structure, the command centre lost contact with him, triggering an emergency search-and-rescue operation.
At 4.01pm, Ho’s colleagues found him collapsed in an open area opposite the building’s lift lobby, showing clear signs of severe burns.
He was rushed to the hospital, but despite emergency treatment, Ho succumbed to his injuries at 4.45pm due to extensive heat-related trauma.
Remembered as a hero
The Hong Kong Fire Services Department confirmed that Ho had served nine years in the force.
Before joining the fire services, he worked in the police Airport Security Unit, where his exceptional physical strength and fearless attitude earned him the nickname “Big Brother Ho.”
Following news of his death, former colleagues and friends filled social media with messages of condolence.
The Fire Services Department also turned its official website black and white as a gesture of mourning for the fallen firefighter.
Meanwhile, Ho’s Instagram account has been inundated with messages from members of the public thanking him for his bravery and offering prayers for his final journey.
