Chinese researcher’s death after questioning in US prompts anger in Beijing
Chinese researcher’s death after questioning in US prompts anger in Beijing
A Chinese semiconductor researcher, Danhao Wang, died in the US following an interrogation by federal authorities, sparking concern in Beijing. The University of Michigan confirmed his death on 19 March, stating it was investigating “a possible act of self-harm” after his fall from a campus building. CBS News reported that Wang had been in contact with investigators before his demise.
China has urged US officials to probe the incident, with the Chinese Embassy expressing “deep distress” over the tragedy. Liu Pengyu, a spokesperson for the embassy, highlighted that authorities had “repeatedly lodged solemn representations” with US agencies and universities, seeking clarity on the case. The embassy also reached out to Wang’s family to offer “active assistance” during the aftermath, while advising Chinese students to “heighten their safety awareness” and “handle US law enforcement actions appropriately.”
“China will continue to take what is necessary to firmly defend Chinese citizens’ legitimate and lawful rights and interests,” said Mao Ning, a foreign ministry spokesperson, during a BBC interview on Wednesday.
The US foreign ministry first commented on 27 March, describing the scholar’s death as a result of “hostile questioning” by law enforcement. This incident is seen as a continuation of broader tensions affecting Chinese academics in the US. Wang, an assistant research scientist in electrical and computer engineering, specialized in semiconductor technology.
Wang’s case follows the 2024 death of Jane Wu, a Chinese-American neuroscientist at Northwestern University, whose family alleged the university mishandled her case during a prolonged federal investigation into her ties with China. The US has intensified its scrutiny of Chinese students in recent years, citing national security threats. In 2020, President Donald Trump barred some Chinese researchers from obtaining visas, and last year, his administration aimed to “aggressively” revoke visas for those linked to the Chinese Communist Party or studying in key fields.
Despite initial strict measures, the US later reversed its stance, issuing 600,000 Chinese student visas amid trade negotiations between Washington and Beijing. The incident underscores the growing anxiety among Chinese scholars abroad, as diplomatic friction escalates.
Additional reporting by Stephen McDonell in Beijing
