Tragedy Strikes Zhuhai as SUV Plows into Crowd

In a shocking incident on Monday evening, at least 35 people lost their lives and 43 others were injured when a vehicle veered off course, crashing into a group of individuals exercising outside the Zhuhai Sports Centre in China. The local authorities have confirmed that the driver, a 62-year-old man identified by his surname Fan, deliberately drove his SUV through a barrier, resulting in significant casualties.

Driver’s Motive and Current Condition

According to police reports, Fan’s actions stemmed from his dissatisfaction with a property settlement related to his divorce. The driver was apprehended while attempting to escape the scene but is currently in a coma due to self-inflicted injuries, rendering him unable to provide any statements to investigators.

Eyewitness accounts reveal that multiple groups had gathered at the stadium for their customary walks when the tragedy unfolded. One observer noted that their group had just completed several laps when they suddenly faced an oncoming vehicle traveling at high speed.

The chaotic scene was captured in videos shared by bystanders, although many of these clips have since been removed from Chinese social media platforms. Footage still circulating online depicts numerous individuals lying injured on the ground as paramedics and fellow citizens rushed to provide aid.

Impact of the Incident Amid Heightened Security

The incident took place amidst heightened security measures in Zhuhai, which is hosting Airshow China, an event showcasing advanced military aircraft and drones. Although it remains unclear whether Fan’s actions were connected to the airshow activities, security has been tight, with several entrances and exits to the sports centre closed for crowd management.

As investigations continue into both the collision and the treatment of those injured, this tragic event highlights rising concerns regarding public safety in China. Recent months have seen an increase in violent attacks against civilians across various cities.

In September alone, a man carried out a stabbing spree in Shanghai that resulted in three fatalities and numerous injuries. Additionally, another tragic incident involved a young student who succumbed to his injuries after being stabbed near his school.

As authorities work to uncover more details about this latest tragedy, communities are left grappling with fears over safety and security in public spaces. The need for effective measures to prevent such incidents is becoming increasingly urgent as citizens demand accountability and protection from violence.