A horrific tragedy unfolded on Monday, November 11, when a 62-year-old man, identified only as Fan, drove his car into a crowd of people who were exercising at a sports complex in Zhuhai, located in southern China. The brutal incident resulted in the loss of 35 lives and left 43 others injured, many of whom are in critical condition. The suspect, who was found wounded in his car with a knife, was immediately arrested and is currently under strict police surveillance in the hospital.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the attack was carried out out of personal frustration over the division of assets in Fan’s recent divorce. The tragic event shocked the local community, and an outpouring of grief followed. Hundreds of emergency responders, including fire and rescue personnel from Zhuhai and Guangdong province, rushed to the scene to assist victims. Over 300 healthcare workers from five nearby hospitals worked tirelessly through the night, treating the wounded and attempting to save as many lives as possible.
As the news spread, a somber scene unfolded at the sports complex. By Tuesday, November 12, mourners began gathering at the site, laying flowers and candles in tribute to the victims. Around 30 people, including delivery drivers, stopped by to offer their condolences, adding bouquets to the growing memorial outside the sports center. The scene was one of quiet reflection as the community came together to honor the lives lost in the senseless act.
Chinese President Xi Jinping addressed the tragedy in a statement on Tuesday evening, calling for swift and strict punishment for the perpetrator. He urged local authorities to ensure that Fan faces justice in accordance with the law and stressed the importance of intensifying preventive measures to address the underlying risks that lead to such extreme acts. Xi also emphasized the need for authorities to better manage and resolve conflicts early to prevent future tragedies of this nature. His call for action underscored the gravity of the situation, and many have since called for greater attention to mental health and conflict resolution in the region.
The incident has left the local community and the entire nation in shock, with many questioning how such a devastating act could be perpetrated. The loss of life, combined with the deeply personal nature of the attack, has drawn attention to the need for better mechanisms to support individuals dealing with personal crises and emotional turmoil.
