A horrific fire at a housing estate in Tai Po, Hong Kong, has claimed 44 lives, including that of firefighter Ho Wai-ho, who died while attempting to save residents.
Ho, who had been in a relationship with his girlfriend for over a decade, was reportedly set to marry her next month. His passing has deeply moved the public, with many expressing heartbreak over his final social media post, in which he wrote, “Thank you. Even if you find me annoying, I’ll still say ‘Love U’ a hundred times. Keep smiling like this forever.” The photo featured him in his firefighting uniform, carrying his fiancée in his arms.
According to ThePaper, Ho was deployed at 3:01 PM on November 26 to combat the blaze at Wang Fuk Court. Communication with him was lost less than 30 minutes after he entered the burning building, prompting an emergency search. Colleagues found him severely injured near the lift lobby area at 4:01 PM. Despite being rushed to hospital, he succumbed to heat-related injuries at 4:45 PM.
Ho had served nine years with the Hong Kong Fire Services Department. Previously, he was part of the police Airport Security Unit, where his physical strength and courage earned him the nickname “Big Brother Ho.”
Following news of his death, tributes flooded social media, and the Fire Services Department converted its official website to black and white as a symbol of mourning. Members of the public have also left messages of gratitude and prayers on his Instagram account, honouring his bravery and sacrifice.
