Press Release

Public Affairs Section
American Embassy, Beijing
Tel: 65321161  Fax: 65322951
Chinese website: http://embassyusa.cn
English website: http://eng.embassyusa.cn  

                                                                                 August 9, 2008

U.S. Embassy Beijing Statement

 

We can confirm reports that one American was killed and a second seriously injured today in what appears to be a senseless act of violence.  A Chinese tour guide was also injured by the assailant, a Chinese man from Zhejiang Province.  The American victims’ adult daughter was with them, but was not injured.

We are actively following up with the Chinese authorities and the victims' family. 

U.S. Embassy personnel have responded to the scene and are at the hospital.  U.S. Ambassador to China Clark T. Randt, Jr., visited the hospital this afternoon and personally conveyed President Bush's heartfelt condolences.

Out of respect for the victims and their family, we are not releasing further details at this time.

This appears to be an isolated act with no connection to the Olympics.  We have no reason to believe that the assailant targeted the victims as American citizens.

 

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