Dozens killed after car ploughs into crowd in China

A tragic event occurred in Zhuhai, a city in southern China, where a car drove into a crowd of people exercising at a stadium. According to local authorities, at least 35 individuals lost their lives, and 43 others sustained injuries. The driver, a 62-year-old man named Mr. Fan, drove his SUV through a barrier at the Zhuhai Sports Centre. The police have described this incident as a serious and vicious attack. Many of the injured were elderly, teenagers, and even children, highlighting the severity of the situation. After the incident, the police apprehended Mr. Fan as he attempted to flee the scene, but he is currently in a coma due to self-inflicted injuries. Reports indicate that the incident is being censored online in China, as BBC journalists were instructed to stop filming while covering the story at the stadium. By Tuesday morning, most videos shared by witnesses had been removed from Chinese social media platforms, although some footage remained, showing numerous individuals lying on the ground and receiving assistance from paramedics and bystanders. In response to the tragedy, Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for all-out efforts to treat the injured and has demanded severe punishment for the perpetrator. This incident took place amid heightened security in Zhuhai, which is currently hosting a major international military airshow. Initial investigations suggest that Mr. Fan's actions may have been motivated by dissatisfaction with a divorce property settlement. However, since he remains in a coma, police have not yet been able to question him. It is common in China for stadiums to serve as exercise grounds for local residents. An eyewitness, Mr. Chen, shared with a Chinese news magazine that at least six groups were present at the stadium for their regular walks when the incident occurred. These groups typically use a designated walking path that follows the stadium's perimeter. Mr. Chen mentioned that his group had just completed their third lap around the stadium when a car suddenly sped towards them, knocking down many people. Another eyewitness recounted that the car drove in a loop, causing injuries all around the running track. The incident took place approximately 40 kilometers away from the venue where the high-profile Airshow China began on Tuesday. This airshow is showcasing China's newest warplanes and attack drones, with top Russian defense officials expected to attend. The management of the sports center announced that several entrances and exits were closed during the airshow for security control. In recent months, China has experienced a series of violent attacks on the public. In October, a knife attack at a prominent school in Beijing injured five individuals, while in September, another attack resulted in three fatalities and several injuries. Following the car attack, Japan's embassy issued a warning to its nationals living in China, advising them to avoid speaking Japanese loudly in public. This tragic incident has raised concerns about public safety and has left many people in shock. If you witnessed the event or have been affected by it, authorities encourage you to reach out and share your experience.