An asteroid has been officially named after Ho Wai-ho, the Hong Kong firefighter who died in the line of duty during a deadly fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po last year.
Ho's fiancée, Kiki, revealed the news in a post on social media, saying she had recently been informed by HK astronomer William Yeung that an asteroid had been named "Howaiho" in his honor. The asteroid's official designation is "34871 Howaiho."
Kiki said she received a message from Yeung in the early hours of May 30 informing her that asteroid No. 34871 had officially been named "34871 Howaiho."
"It will continue orbiting within the solar system for a very long time, and Mr. Ho's name will be preserved forever in this way," she wrote.
According to a citation published by the International Astronomical Union, asteroid "34871 Howaiho" was first observed by Yeung on Oct. 18, 2001, at Desert Eagle Observatory in Arizona, US.
The citation states: "Ho Wai Ho (1987–2025) was a Hong Kong firefighter devoted to public service. Formerly a police officer, he served with courage in fire and rescue operations, assisting in the evacuation of residents during emergencies. He died in the line of duty during a major fire accident in Hong Kong and is remembered for his bravery and dedication."
Kiki also recalled the time she and Ho spent stargazing together. In his message to her, Yeung quoted a well-known line from "The Little Prince" to offer comfort: "What is essential is invisible to the eye."
Yeung added: "This asteroid may not be visible to the naked eye, but what it represents is real and eternal. Mr. Ho Wai-ho's name will remain in the solar system forever, while his courage, sacrifice and lifesaving spirit will continue to live on in the memory of HK people."
Born in 1987, Ho joined the Fire Services Department as a firefighter in 2016 and was assigned to Sha Tin Fire Station. Throughout nearly nine years of service, he was recognized for his professionalism, dedication and outstanding performance.
He participated in numerous firefighting and rescue operations during his career.
On Nov. 26, when a fire broke out at Wang Cheong House of Wang Fuk Court, Ho and his colleagues arrived at the scene at approximately 3:01 p.m. and were assigned to firefighting and rescue duties.
At around 3:30 p.m., he lost contact with fellow firefighters. About 30 minutes later, at 4:01 p.m., he was found unconscious near the lift lobby of Wang Cheong House with burn injuries.
Paramedics immediately administered emergency treatment and cardiopulmonary resuscitation before transferring him to Prince of Wales Hospital in Sha Tin.
Despite rescue efforts, he was pronounced dead at 4:45 p.m. by attending medical staff.
In recognition of his exemplary service and selfless dedication during firefighting and rescue operations, the Fire Services Department posthumously awarded Ho the honorary title of Senior Fireman.
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