Fallen Hong Kong Firefighter Honored with Asteroid Naming

A minor planet discovered by a Hong Kong-born astronomer has been named after Ho Wai-ho, a firefighter who perished while combating a massive blaze at the Wang Fuk Court housing complex last year. The inferno, which erupted in November 2025, tragically resulted in 168 fatalities, including the 37-year-old firefighter.

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Ho served with courage in fire and rescue operations, assisting in the evacuation of residents during emergencies.

The minor planet, officially designated 34871, was initially discovered in 2001 by amateur astronomer William Yeung. The International Astronomical Union's citation records note that Ho "served with courage in fire and rescue operations, assisting in the evacuation of residents during emergencies."

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This asteroid may not be visible to the human eye, but the essence it represents is genuine and eternal.

Ho's fiancée, Kiki, whose surname was not provided, shared on social media that Yeung had informed her of the celestial honor. She relayed that the astronomer told her, "This asteroid may not be visible to the human eye, but the essence it represents is genuine and eternal." Yeung added, "Mr Ho Wai-ho’s name will remain forever in the solar system."

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Mr Ho Wai-ho’s name will remain forever in the solar system.

Announcing the news, Kiki posted, "Dearest 34871 Ho Wai-ho, as a star you will forever watch over us." The firefighter was buried at Gallant Garden on December 19, 2025, following his death in the line of duty at the Wang Fuk Court fire.

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Dearest 34871 Ho Wai-ho, as a star you will forever watch over us.