A car crash at Tiananmen Square claims 3 lives
Three people were killed and several others injured Monday morning when a car plowed into pedestrians and caught fire at Tiananmen Square in Beijing.
Three people were killed and several others injured Monday morning when a car plowed into pedestrians and caught fire at Tiananmen Square in Beijing.
Hua Chunying, spokesperson for China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated that they were unaware of the details of the incident and refused to comment further on a possible terrorist attack. The police announced on their official website that the jeep caught fire after breaching barriers at the north end of Tiananmen Square. "Police on the scene immediately launched rescue operations, and the fire was quickly brought under control... The situation is currently under investigation," they added. The 3 occupants of the vehicle died in the crash, while 11 tourists and several police officers were injured and transported to the hospital.
It appears the car crashed directly into the main entrance of the Forbidden City, where the massive portrait of China's founding leader Mao Zedong is displayed. Tiananmen Square is infamous for the 1989 student demonstrations that were violently suppressed. The square remains under heightened security due to its proximity to official government buildings and continues to be the site of protests, including self-immolations in 2001 and 2011. A witness reported seeing fire trucks, an ambulance, and numerous police cars heading toward the fire, while access to the site was blocked to all pedestrians.
Chinese censorship
News of the accident spread across social media like wildfire through eyewitnesses on the scene, but certain photos appear to have been quickly removed. Multiple internet users questioned the likelihood of an accident at this location and raised the possibility of an intentional act. 
The AFP reported that two of its journalists on the scene were detained before being released. The footage they had captured was subsequently deleted...
Frequently asked questions
On October 28, 2013, a jeep plowed into pedestrians and caught fire at Tiananmen Square in Beijing. The crash resulted in the deaths of the 3 vehicle occupants and injuries to 11 tourists and several police officers.
Tiananmen Square is one of the most heavily monitored sites in China, with a substantial police presence. Tourists can visit, but should respect local regulations and remain vigilant in large public spaces.
Tiananmen Square is notably known for the 1989 student demonstrations, violently suppressed by the Chinese government. It also symbolizes Chinese power, with the Forbidden City and Mao Zedong's portrait at its center.
Following the October 28, 2013 incident, photos and videos shared on social media were rapidly removed by Chinese authorities. Two AFP journalists present at the scene were also detained and their footage erased.
Yes, the Forbidden City is located directly north of Tiananmen Square. The main entrance, crowned by the famous portrait of Mao Zedong, is accessible from the square. It is recommended to book your tickets in advance.
