Chinese researcher’s death after questioning in US prompts anger in Beijing

Chinese Researcher’s Death Sparks Outcry in Beijing

Following the discovery of a Chinese semiconductor researcher’s body in the United States, China has urged American authorities to launch an investigation. The researcher, identified as Danhao Wang from the University of Michigan, was found deceased after undergoing “hostile questioning” by local law enforcement, according to CBS News.

The University of Michigan issued a statement on 19 March, indicating it was examining “a possible act of self-harm” linked to Wang’s fatal fall from a campus building. Liu Pengyu, a representative of the Chinese Embassy in the US, expressed deep concern to the BBC on Thursday, stating that China had “repeatedly lodged solemn representations” with relevant US agencies and universities. He emphasized the need for “active assistance” with the aftermath, including contacting Wang’s family.

“China will continue to take what is necessary to firmly defend Chinese citizens’ legitimate and lawful rights and interests,” said Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning when asked about the case on Wednesday.

While the embassy avoided confirming Wang’s identity directly, Liu had previously disclosed it to the South China Morning Post. Both the university and the Chinese foreign ministry cited privacy concerns when declining to verify the details further.

Wang, an assistant research scientist in electrical and computer engineering, specialized in semiconductor technologies. The Chinese foreign ministry first commented on the incident on 27 March, describing the scholar’s death as a result of “hostile questioning” by US law enforcement. They accused the actions of “seriously violating Chinese citizens’ lawful rights” and “poisoning the atmosphere for people-to-people exchanges.”

Tensions between Beijing and Washington have intensified, with Wang’s case highlighting the precarious situation of Chinese academics in the US. This follows the 2024 suicide of Chinese-American neuroscientist Jane Wu, whose family alleged the university failed to support her during a prolonged federal inquiry into her ties with China.

In recent years, the US has increased scrutiny of Chinese students, citing national security worries. During Trump’s presidency, an executive order in 2020 barred individuals with suspected military connections from securing US visas. Last year, the administration pledged to “aggressively” revoke visas for students linked to the Chinese Communist Party or studying in strategic fields. However, a shift occurred months later, with 600,000 visas issued amid trade negotiations between the two nations.