Ho Wai-ho perished fighting deadly Tai Po fire, leaving behind fiancée he was set to marry next month
A tragic fire that claimed 44 lives at a Tai Po housing estate in Hong Kong has also taken the life of firefighter Ho Wai-ho, who was just weeks away from marrying his longtime partner.
The devastating incident has left Hong Kong mourning the loss of a hero who was set to begin a new chapter of his life with his fiancée of over a decade.
According to Taiwan’s news outlet CaVa, Ho had been in a committed relationship with his girlfriend for more than ten years, with their wedding planned for next month.
An Instagram photograph showing Ho in his uniform embracing his partner has resonated deeply with the public. His caption read: “Thank you. Even if you find me annoying, I’ll still say ‘Love U’ a hundred times. Keep smiling like this forever.”
What was once a tender declaration of love has transformed into a poignant final message.
Hong Kong’s ThePaper reports that Ho responded to the emergency call at Wang Fuk Court housing estate at 3:01pm yesterday.
Within half an hour of entering the blazing structure, communication with him was lost, prompting immediate rescue efforts.
His fellow firefighters located him at 4:01pm in an open space near the building’s lift lobby, suffering from severe burn injuries.
Despite being transported to hospital for urgent medical care, Ho died at 4:45pm from extensive heat-related trauma.
The Hong Kong Fire Services Department disclosed that Ho had dedicated nine years to the fire service. Prior to this role, he served with the police Airport Security Unit, where his remarkable physical capabilities and courageous spirit earned him the affectionate moniker “Big Brother Ho.”
News of Ho’s death triggered an avalanche of tributes from former colleagues and acquaintances across social media platforms. The Fire Services Department honoured his sacrifice by converting its official website to monochrome colours as a sign of respect.
Members of the public have flooded Ho’s Instagram profile with messages expressing gratitude for his heroism and offering condolences for his untimely passing.
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