Student Fatally Stabbed at Chinese Tourist Site, Suspect Identified as Mentally Ill

On Sunday, a 19-year-old university student was fatally stabbed at a tourist site in Nanchang, Jiangxi Province. Another young woman was also injured in the incident. Local police identified the suspect as a 23-year-old man with a history of mental illness.

The attack took place at approximately 1:40 p.m. at the Meihu Scenic Area, part of the Bada Shanren tourist site. The suspect used scissors in the assault and was subsequently taken into custody by the police.

The deceased victim, identified as Liu, was a first-year student at the China Foreign Affairs University. She was scheduled to begin her second year of studies in September.

Unconfirmed reports circulating on social media and among students suggest that Liu was wearing traditional Hanfu clothing and taking photographs with friends when the suspect approached her. After she declined his interaction, he allegedly stabbed her multiple times. Another young woman, surnamed Shi, was also stabbed, sustaining a lung injury but surviving due to the assistance of bystanders.

Screenshots attributed to the victim's family claimed that Liu was stabbed multiple times and died before medical help arrived. However, police have not yet confirmed these details.

Following the incident, the university's student affairs office issued a safety notice, urging students to prioritize personal and travel safety during the summer break.

The case has sparked renewed public discussion regarding the criminal responsibility of individuals with psychiatric conditions.

According to Chinese Criminal Law, individuals with mental illnesses who are unable to recognize or control their actions at the time of a crime, as determined through legal procedures, are exempt from criminal liability. However, their families or guardians are responsible for strict supervision and medical treatment, and the government may mandate compulsory medical care if necessary. Individuals with intermittent mental illness who commit crimes while mentally competent are fully liable. Those who have not completely lost the ability to recognize or control their behavior may still bear criminal responsibility, but potentially receive reduced sentences.