Firefighter Who Was Set to Marry His Girlfriend of 10 Years Dies Saving Lives in Hong Kong Blaze

 

A Hong Kong firefighter with nine years of service died while battling a massive fire that swept through the Wang Fuk Court residential estate in Tai Po, in one of the city’s deadliest disasters in decades. The blaze, which broke out on 26 November, has claimed at least 128 lives and forced hundreds of residents from their homes.

The firefighter rushed into the burning buildings in an effort to rescue trapped residents as flames spread rapidly across several residential blocks. He later lost contact with his team during the operation and was found critically injured. Despite emergency treatment, he was pronounced dead in hospital.

He had been in a relationship with his girlfriend for 10 years and was set to marry next month. News of his death has deeply shaken the city, with many expressing sorrow over a life lost just weeks before his wedding and praising his bravery and selfless sacrifice.

Authorities said the fire spread quickly due to flammable renovation materials, including external scaffolding and coverings surrounding the buildings. Several individuals linked to the renovation project have been arrested on suspicion of negligence as investigations continue into the cause of the blaze.

Hundreds of residents were evacuated as thick smoke and intense heat trapped many inside their homes. Emergency shelters were opened for displaced families, while search and recovery operations continued for days after the fire.

The firefighter’s death has sparked an outpouring of tributes across Hong Kong, with officials and members of the public hailing him as a hero who gave his life to save others. As the city mourns the victims of the tragedy, renewed calls are being made for stricter enforcement of building safety regulations to prevent similar disasters in the future.