In a city in southern China, residents are paying homage to the 35 people who lost their lives after a driver crashed his car into a sports complex earlier this week, hitting several people who were exercising. The attack, which also left 43 seriously injured, took place in the city of Zhuhai. Authorities revealed little information about the attacker, a 62-year-old man identified only by his surname, Fan. It was reported that Fan was upset about his divorce settlement and was arrested while trying to flee the scene.
Authorities highlighted that Fan was dissatisfied with his divorce agreement but did not provide further details about the separation. Chinese President Xi Jinping called for strict punishment according to the law and urged local governments to strengthen conflict prevention and management. Tributes were held in honor of the victims outside the sports complex in Zhuhai, in Guangdong province.
Videos of the incident, quickly published outside China, were censored within the country. Eyewitness accounts were limited in Chinese media, and authorities maintained strict control over information related to the attack. Security in the area was increased, and citizens were allowed to leave bouquets at the entrance of the complex, which were later moved inside the premises.
Residents of Zhuhai expressed their dismay at the shocking incident, with some people sharing their fears and worries about safety in the city. The police presence at the site was initially limited but intensified throughout the day. While some residents were still processing the tragedy, others expressed their solidarity with the victims and their families, emphasizing the importance of maintaining unity in difficult times.
