A 37-year-old firefighter has been identified among the casualties of the deadly Hong Kong apartment complex fire that broke out on Nov. 26, 2025.

According to a statement by the Hong Kong government, Ho Wai Ho had served at the Fire Services Department for nine years.

During the fire, he was fighting the blaze on the ground floor of the building, and shortly become  uncontactable at around 3:30pm on Nov. 26, The Standard reported.

About half an hour later, Ho was found collapsed in an open area near the apartment complex, having sustained facial burns.

He was rushed to the hospital, but unfortunately passed away at 4:41pm.

Planning to get married next month

Ho was going to get married to his girlfriend of more than 10 years, Sinchew reported, citing a Taiwanese media outlet.

His Instagram is filled with photos of himself with his girlfriend.

He wrote in the caption of one:"Thank you very much. Even if you find me annoying, I need to say it 100 times. Love u. You must always laugh as happily as this!"

Tributes

China's President Xi Jinping extended his condolences to Ho, the other victims of the fire and their families, as well as Hong Kong's Chief Executive John Lee, Chinese state media CCTV reported.

The director of the fire service, Andy Yeung, expressed profound sadness over Ho's passing.

In the statement, Yeung said that he was"profoundly grieved at the loss of this dedicated and gallant fireman."

"All of our colleagues are deeply saddened by the loss of such a devoted comrade," he added.

The fire service's welfare officer and psychological services unit are closely liaising with Ho's family to provide them with assistance during this difficult time.

On Threads, a user said to be a friend of Ho's posted a photo with Ho taken when Ho graduated from the fire academy.

"Please remember the face of a hero," the friend wrote in the caption."We will not forget you. Thank you for sacrificing everything for us. Your last shift has ended. Rest in peace."

The fire service said that at least one other firefighter is in hospital, The Standard reported.