A devastating five-alarm fire that erupted at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, Hong Kong, tragically claimed 159 lives, including a heroic firefighter, Ho Wai-ho. The Fire Services Department (FSD) announced it will honor Ho with the highest distinctions during a formal funeral service scheduled for next Friday, Dec. 19, at the Universal Funeral Parlour in Hung Hom.
Ho Wai-ho, 37, a dedicated member of the FSD for nine years, was stationed at the Sha Tin Fire Station and served with a Light Rescue Unit. On the afternoon of the emergency, Mon., Dec. 8, 2025, Ho responded promptly, arriving at the scene via a light rescue vehicle around 3:01 p.m. He was immediately assigned to critical ground-level rescue operations near the housing complex.
A Dedicated Service and Tragic Loss
The intense and rapidly escalating situation led to a heartbreaking turn of events when communication with Ho ceased approximately 30 minutes later, around 3:30 p.m. A subsequent search effort was launched, culminating in the critical discovery of the firefighter at about 4:01 p.m. Ho was located in the open area outside Wang Cheong House suffering from severe facial burns. Despite immediate transport to Prince of Wales Hospital, he was later pronounced deceased.
The profound impact of Ho’s sacrifice resonated deeply throughout the community and the FSD. On Dec. 2, an emotional roadside vigil was held at the site of the tragedy. Family members and uniformed colleagues gathered, laying white flowers in silent tribute. Photos from the event show several firefighters visibly struggling with grief, mourning the loss of their comrade.
Community Mourns Fallen ‘Superhero’
The personal devastation was further revealed when Ho’s long-term girlfriend, with whom he shared a decade-long relationship, posted a deeply moving public tribute online. She expressed profound gratitude for the outpouring of condolences from the public while articulating her struggle to accept the sudden news. Describing Ho as her “superhero” and “pride,” her words highlighted the immense personal void left by a life dedicated to protecting others.
The FSD’s decision to accord Ho Wai-ho the highest honors underscores the magnitude of his selfless service and the grave risks associated with emergency response work in densely populated urban environments. The funeral proceedings are expected to draw thousands of mourners, representing not only the full complement of Hong Kong’s emergency services but also the communities touched by Ho’s bravery.
The massive loss of life in the Wang Fuk Court blaze serves as a somber reminder of the vulnerabilities inherent in communal housing and the critical role firefighters play in safeguarding public safety. As investigations into the structural and regulatory factors contributing to the catastrophic number of fatalities continue, Ho Wai-ho’s sacrifice will stand as a testament to the ultimate commitment required in the line of duty.