A firefighter who died battling one of Hong Kong’s deadliest fires ever has been honoured by having an asteroid named after him.
Ho Wai-ho, 37, lost his life while working to put out the fire at the Wang Fuk Court residential complex in Tai Po, home to around 4,600 people, last December.
The inferno burned for over a day and claimed 168 lives.
The firefighter’s surviving fiancée shared on social media that an asteroid had been named in honour of him by William Yeung Kwong-yu, former head of the Hong Kong Astronomical Society and one of the world’s most prolific discoverers of asteroids and other space rocks.
The Hong Kong-born Canadian astronomer has found more than 2,000 minor planets so far.
The asteroid named after the firefighter was discovered in 2001 and previously catalogued as 34871. It’s now formally called “34871 Howaiho”.
“From now on, we can see you just by looking up at the night sky,” Ho’s fiancée wrote. “Dearest 34871 Howaiho, you have become a star and protect us as always.”
Funeral for firefighter Ho Wai-ho (AFP via Getty)
The International Astronomical Union hailed Ho as a person devoted to public service.
“Formerly a police officer, he served with courage in fire and rescue operations, assisting in the evaluation of resident emergencies,” it said.
“He died in the line of duty during a major fire accident in Hong Kong and is remembered for his bravery and dedication.”
The naming of the asteroid is meant to serve as a lasting memory of the firefighter’s courage, sacrifice, and lifesaving spirit, Mr Yeung said.
Asteroid 34871 ‘Howaiho’ and its trajectory (IAU)
According to Hong Kong authorities, the inferno was caused by a “grossly negligent” construction firm using unsafe materials.
Last week, a court charged seven people and two firms involved in the renovation of the residential complex with offences including manslaughter and conspiracy.
Previously in March, police arrested 38 people over allegations of manslaughter and fraud and later charged nine of them.
The Chinese city’s anti-corruption agency said the same month it had arrested 23 people on suspicion of offences such as bribery and conspiracy to defraud.
