SUV Attack in Southern China Leaves 35 Dead

 

In a shocking incident, 35 people lost their lives, and 43 others were injured after a man deliberately drove his SUV through a crowded sports center in Zhuhai, southern China. The attack occurred on Monday, November 11, when 62-year-old Fan drove his vehicle through the center’s gate and into the crowd of people exercising on the internal roads. The initial police report indicated only injuries, but as the investigation continued, authorities updated the toll to reflect the full extent of the tragedy.

Preliminary reports suggest that Fan’s actions may have been motivated by frustration over a property dispute linked to his recent divorce. Eyewitnesses described the terror that unfolded as the SUV barreled through the track. One bystander, surnamed Chen, recounted how he narrowly escaped being hit after completing his third lap around the track. Unfortunately, many others were not as fortunate, and police footage verified by AFP captured the desperate efforts to save those severely injured on the scene.

The sports center, a popular spot for residents to exercise, quickly became a scene of devastation as victims lay motionless while bystanders and emergency responders worked to revive the injured. Social media videos documenting the incident were swiftly removed, limiting access to visual accounts. However, the tragedy has sparked widespread mourning and discussions about safety protocols in public spaces across China.

Police have apprehended Fan, who is now under investigation, and authorities have pledged to provide full support to victims' families. The government has heightened security measures around similar public venues to prevent further incidents, and local leaders have voiced their determination to hold those responsible fully accountable.

The incident underscores the rare but devastating nature of attacks motivated by personal grievances in China. The Zhuhai sports center tragedy has sparked conversations nationwide about public safety, mental health, and how property disputes and personal crises can escalate into public violence. The local community remains in shock and mourning as they await further updates from authorities on the legal proceedings against Fan.