Zhuhai, China – A devastating car ramming incident occurred on Monday evening in Zhuhai, southern China, resulting in the deaths of at least 35 individuals and injuring 43 others. The shocking event took place outside a sports center where numerous people were exercising.
The attack unfolded at approximately 7:48 PM local time (11:48 GMT) when a 62-year-old man, identified by the surname Fan, drove his small off-road vehicle into a large gathering of people. The police only reported the incident on Tuesday.
According to authorities, the suspect is currently under medical care at a local hospital after inflicting injuries on himself with a knife while in his vehicle. Police have classified the incident as a “serious and vicious attack,” but confirmed that the injuries sustained by the 43 victims are not life-threatening.
Eyewitness accounts, corroborated by a video verified by Reuters, depicted the chaotic scene with at least 20 individuals lying on the ground as the sound of cries for help filled the air, accompanied by shouts of “terrorist” as ambulances arrived to transport the injured.
Authorities revealed that Fan attempted to flee the scene but was apprehended by police shortly thereafter. He sustained severe neck injuries due to self-harm with a knife and is currently in a coma, rendering him unable to be interrogated. Preliminary investigations suggest that the attack may have been motivated by grievances regarding the division of marital property following his divorce.
In response to the tragedy, Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for comprehensive efforts to treat the injured and has demanded harsh penalties for the perpetrator. The central government has also dispatched a team to oversee the investigation and response to the incident, as reported by state television network CCTV.
Despite being known for its tight security and strict gun control measures, violent crime has been on the rise in China, particularly incidents involving knives in urban areas. Recent attacks, including a knife assault in Beijing that injured five outside a primary school and the fatal stabbing of a Japanese student in Shenzhen, have heightened public concern regarding safety in public spaces.
As Zhuhai prepares to host China’s largest annual air show this week, featuring the debut of a new stealth jet fighter, the community grapples with the aftermath of this tragic event.