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

Chinese Researcher’s Death After US Interrogation Sparks Outcry in Beijing

A Chinese semiconductor researcher, Danhao Wang, was found dead following “hostile questioning” by U.S. authorities, prompting Beijing to demand a thorough inquiry. The University of Michigan confirmed the incident occurred on 19 March when Wang fell from a campus building, leading the institution to investigate “a possible act of self-harm,” as stated in a press release.

Speaking on Thursday, Liu Pengyu, a representative of the Chinese Embassy in Washington, expressed deep concern over the tragedy. He noted that China had already “lodged solemn representations” with U.S. agencies and universities, emphasizing the need for “active assistance” to Wang’s family. Liu also urged Chinese students abroad to “heighten their safety awareness” and “respond appropriately” to interactions with law enforcement.

“China will continue to take necessary measures to firmly defend the lawful rights and interests of its citizens,” said Mao Ning, a spokesperson for the foreign ministry, during a BBC interview on Wednesday.

The U.S. government’s handling of the case has intensified scrutiny over Chinese academics. In March 2020, President Donald Trump issued an executive order restricting visas for students and researchers with suspected military connections. Last year, his administration pledged to “aggressively” revoke visas of those tied to the Communist Party or studying in strategic fields, but later reversed course, approving 600,000 Chinese student visas amid trade negotiations.

This incident adds to growing concerns about the treatment of Chinese scholars in the U.S. Earlier in 2024, Jane Wu, a Chinese-American neuroscientist at Northwestern University, took her own life after years of federal investigations into her links with China. Her family filed a lawsuit against the university, alleging unfair treatment during the probe.

The Chinese foreign ministry described the situation as a “serious chilling effect” on academic collaboration, accusing U.S. law enforcement of “seriously violating Chinese citizens’ lawful rights” and undermining people-to-people exchanges. It called for a “full investigation” and a “responsible explanation” from American authorities.

Additional reporting by Stephen McDonnell in Beijing