Chinese researcher’s death after questioning in US prompts anger in Beijing
Chinese researcher’s death after questioning in US prompts anger in Beijing
Following the sudden passing of a Chinese semiconductor researcher in the United States, Chinese officials have urged American authorities to probe the incident. The researcher, Danhao Wang, was discovered deceased after being subjected to “hostile questioning” by law enforcement, according to reports by US media outlets.
According to CBS News, Wang’s death occurred shortly after his conversation with federal investigators. The University of Michigan, where he was affiliated, stated it is examining “a possible act of self-harm” linked to his fatal fall from a campus structure on 19 March. The university and China’s foreign ministry have both opted not to confirm Wang’s identity publicly, citing respect for his family’s privacy.
“We are deeply distressed by this tragedy,” stated Liu Pengyu, a representative from the Chinese Embassy in the US. He added that China has “repeatedly lodged solemn representations” with relevant US agencies and universities, while also reaching out to Wang’s family to “provide active assistance with the aftermath.”
Liu also emphasized the importance of Chinese students in the US “heightening their safety awareness” and “handling US law enforcement actions appropriately.” The foreign ministry initially addressed the case on 27 March, asserting that the researcher had taken his own life “after being subjected to hostile questioning by US law enforcement personnel.”
“Such actions seriously violate Chinese citizens’ lawful rights, poison the atmosphere for people-to-people exchanges between the two countries, and continue to create a serious chilling effect,” said the ministry. They demanded the US conduct a “full investigation” and deliver a “responsible explanation” to both the family and Chinese authorities.
Foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning reiterated the call for a US investigation on Wednesday, stating, “China will continue to take what is necessary to firmly defend Chinese citizens’ legitimate and lawful rights and interests.” Wang’s death has intensified scrutiny on the treatment of Chinese academics in the US, amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Earlier this year, the death of Jane Wu, a Chinese-American neuroscientist from Northwestern University, sparked similar concerns. Her family filed a lawsuit against the university, alleging it had treated her poorly during a prolonged federal inquiry into her connections with China. This follows a trend of increased US vigilance over Chinese students, driven by national security concerns.
Under former President Donald Trump, an executive order in 2020 restricted visas for Chinese nationals with suspected military ties. Last year, the Trump administration vowed to “aggressively” revoke visas for Chinese students in critical fields or linked to the Communist Party. However, months later, the US reversed course, issuing 600,000 student visas amid trade negotiations between Washington and Beijing.
