Members of the public gathered outside the Universal Funeral Parlour in Hung Hom on Friday to pay respects to firefighter Ho Wai-ho, who died battling a deadly blaze at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po last month.
A long table was set up outside the parlor, adorned with wreaths and baskets where citizens placed flowers in tribute to Ho, posthumously promoted to senior fireman for his bravery.
From around 8.30am, people arrived to lay flowers and express condolences.
One resident wished Ho peaceful rest, noting the tragedy had deeply affected Hong Kong and hoping similar incidents would not recur.
Another early visitor, who had paid respects inside the hall at dawn and planned to attend a public memorial, described Ho's sacrifice for the community as profoundly moving, even though she did not know him personally.
A mother of four shared her sorrow over Ho's death, acknowledging the challenges of raising a family and calling for better equipment to safeguard firefighters.
