BEIJING – A hit-and-run incident claimed the lives of 35 people and left 43 others severely injured on Saturday evening in Zhuhai, a city in southern China. The tragic event unfolded outside a sports center where a large crowd was gathered for evening exercise when a vehicle plowed through them.
The incident occurred at approximately 7:48 p.m., with local police identifying the suspect as a 62-year-old man surnamed Fan. He reportedly drove his off-road vehicle into the crowd, targeting those outside the Zhuhai sports center. Police apprehended Fan at the scene after he attempted to self-harm and escape, suffering serious neck injuries in the process.
Eyewitnesses captured harrowing footage of the aftermath, showing victims lying on the ground as emergency responders arrived. Distraught voices could be heard calling out in alarm, and ambulances worked swiftly to transport the wounded to nearby hospitals.
Initial investigations point to a possible motive of personal discontent, as police believe the suspect’s actions were triggered by grievances stemming from a recent divorce. Chinese authorities are now carrying out a detailed investigation to confirm the exact circumstances surrounding the incident.
President Xi Jinping expressed his condolences and called for an all-out effort to treat the injured, emphasizing that the assailant must face severe consequences. He has sent a government team to Zhuhai to guide the local response and ensure that those affected receive necessary support.
While China typically experiences low rates of violent crime due to strict security measures and stringent gun control laws, recent knife attacks in urban areas have sparked growing public concern about public safety.
Zhuhai is currently hosting China’s largest annual air show, drawing international visitors and showcasing advanced military technology, including the country’s new stealth jet fighter. The timing of the attack has further heightened security awareness and cast a shadow over the city during a high-profile event.