HONG KONG — A distinguished firefighter, 37-year-old Ho Wai-ho, who tragically died combating a devastating five-alarm blaze in Tsz Wan Shan’s Wan Fuk Court, will receive a high-level ceremonial funeral next Friday, December 19, at the Hung Hom Universal Funeral Parlour. The government announced the posthumous tribute for the nine-year veteran, whose dedication and bravery exemplified the risks inherent in public service. Following the ceremony, Ho’s remains will be interred at Gallant Garden, the dedicated burial ground for civil servants killed in the line of duty.
Firefighter Ho, stationed at the Sha Tin fire station, was nicknamed “Big Ho” by colleagues—a testament to his exceptional physical fitness, honed during his previous tenure as an elite Airport Special Duties Unit officer with the police force. On November 26, Ho was actively engaged in rescue and suppression efforts on the ground floor of Wan Fuk Court.
The tragedy unfolded mid-afternoon. Ho lost contact with his unit at approximately 3:30 p.m. Thirty minutes later, he was discovered unconscious in an open area near Wan Cheong Court. Despite immediate attempts by emergency medical personnel to revive him, including CPR, Ho—who was found with facial burns—succumbed to his injuries at Prince of Wales Hospital at 4:45 p.m. the same day.
Community and Colleagues Pay Respects
Ho’s sacrifice has deeply resonated throughout the community and the Fire Services Department. Just a week after the fatal blaze, mourners, family members, and numerous colleagues gathered near the disaster site for a traditional “Head Seven” roadside memorial. The solemn event saw attendees carrying white flowers, bowing their heads in silent tribute, and placing the blooms near the scene of the tragedy.
The sorrow was palpable among the ranks of the Fire Services Department. Multiple firefighters in uniform were seen visibly weeping during the roadside rituals. Furthermore, roughly 40 Buddhist monks attended, chanting sutras to consecrate the spot and pray for the departed souls, including the late firefighter. The collective display of grief underscored the profound sense of loss for a man recognized for his unwavering professionalism and commitment.
Implications of Service and Sacrifice
The loss serves as a stark reminder of the extreme dangers faced by first responders in high-density urban environments like Hong Kong. The Wan Fuk Court incident, classified as a five-alarm fire—among the most serious categories—required massive mobilization and exposed personnel to life-threatening conditions.
Authorities are expected to conduct a comprehensive review of the operational circumstances surrounding the fire, particularly focusing on safety protocols during complex rescue operations. While the official inquiry determines the precise factors leading to Ho’s death, the focus remains on honoring his legacy and supporting his family.
Firefighter Ho Wai-ho’s funeral next week is anticipated to draw extensive attendance from government officials, emergency service leadership, and the public, transforming the solemn occasion into a moment of collective reflection on courage and the ultimate price of public service. His interment at Gallant Garden will enshrine him among other Hong Kong heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting the city.
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