Bodybuilder, 30, Hugo Sergio dies in house fire while trying to save pet dog after rescuing wife and daughter

A BODYBUILDER is being hailed as a hero after he died saving his wife and daughter from their burning home.

Hugo Sergio, 30, sprang into action when he realised the family apartment was on fire in the early hours of July 29.

The personal trainer shook his wife awake and ordered her to get out of the burning flat with their daughter immediately.

However, he remained inside the death trap in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to save the family's pet.

Hugo ended up trapped and died while rescuing the pooch from the inferno.

Harrowing footage shows smoke billowing from the glowing high-rise.

Neighbour Wellington Couto Bento told local media: "The wife went downstairs to ask for help.

"Neighbours managed to enter the burning apartment and heard the child calling for help. She was burned.

"They called for Hugo, but there was no response.

"Probably, the flames blocked the bedroom door, and he couldn't get out."

Thanks to Hugo's selfless actions, the dog ended up surviving, and his wife and daughter were taken to hospital.

Mum Larissa has since been discharged. However, young Maya sustained burns to 70 per cent of her body and is still receiving treatment at the facility.

Her condition was last reported to be "critical".

Cops are now investigating the cause of the blaze.

The prime suspicion is that a short circuit occurred in a TV set.

Hugo was laid to rest at Inhauma Cemetery on July 29.

Family and friends who attended his funeral hailed him as a hero, local media report.

Hugo's devastated wife was able to attend the ceremony.

The 30-year-old was studying physical education and also worked as a personal trainer at a gym in the city.

One of his students, Jean Tavares, wrote online: "Hugo was the best coach I ever had, I am very grateful. May God comfort the hearts of his family."

On social media, Hugo posted regular snaps of his toned body, training routine, and his love for his family.

The investigation continues.