China: 35 Killed, Dozens Injured After SUV Rams Into Pedestrians in Zhuhai City

Zhuhai, China – November 11, 2024

A horrific incident shook the city of Zhuhai in southern China on Monday evening when a vehicle plowed into a crowd of people exercising on the internal roads of a sports center. The incident, which occurred around 7:48 p.m. local time, has left 35 people dead and 43 injured, according to authorities.

The tragedy unfolded as a 62-year-old man, identified by his surname Fan, reportedly drove a small SUV through the gates of the Zhuhai Sports Centre. Witnesses say the vehicle forced its way onto the sports center’s internal roads, where it struck individuals engaged in evening exercise. Authorities described the act as a “serious and vicious attack,” sparking nationwide outrage and concern.

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After the rampage, police found Fan inside his vehicle, reportedly attempting self-harm with a knife. Officers intervened promptly, preventing further injuries, and rushed him to the hospital, where he remains in a coma due to self-inflicted injuries to his neck and other areas. According to officials, Fan is currently unable to undergo interrogation.

Chinese President Xi Jinping responded quickly to the tragedy, directing authorities to ensure public safety and calling for “all-out efforts” to treat the injured. Xi also demanded that the perpetrator, once stabilized, face strict legal consequences in accordance with Chinese law.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the attack may have been motivated by Fan’s recent divorce, a detail that has drawn attention to the underlying emotional stressors that can contribute to such rare, but devastating, acts of violence. Violent crime rates remain low in China, with strict security measures and firearm regulations, but an increase in knife attacks has raised concerns about public safety in urban areas.

The tragic event also comes as Zhuhai hosts China’s largest aerospace show, an event showcasing the nation’s civil and military advancements. Videos circulating on social media reveal a harrowing scene following the attack, with at least 20 individuals lying on the ground awaiting medical assistance.

The nation mourns alongside the victims and their families, and officials are closely monitoring the situation as they work to restore public confidence and security in Zhuhai.