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

Chinese Researcher’s Death After US Interrogation Sparks Outcry

A Chinese semiconductor researcher, Danhao Wang, died in the United States following “hostile questioning” by law enforcement, prompting the Chinese government to demand a full investigation. According to CBS News, the incident occurred shortly after Wang spoke with federal investigators. The University of Michigan, where he was affiliated, stated it is examining “a potential act of self-harm” after his fatal fall from a campus building on 19 March.

Liu Pengyu, a representative from the Chinese Embassy in Washington, expressed deep concern over the tragedy to the BBC on Thursday. He highlighted that China has already “submitted formal representations” to relevant US agencies and universities, seeking clarity on the case. The embassy also assured the victim’s family of “ongoing support” in managing the aftermath. Liu previously confirmed Wang’s identity to the South China Morning Post, identifying him as a researcher at the University of Michigan.

“China will continue to take necessary steps to protect the rights and interests of its citizens abroad,” said Mao Ning, a spokesperson for the foreign ministry, when pressed about the case on Wednesday.

Wang, an assistant research scientist specializing in electrical and computer engineering, had focused on semiconductor technology. His death adds to growing scrutiny of Chinese academics in the US, as geopolitical tensions persist. This follows the 2024 suicide of Jane Wu, a Chinese-American neuroscientist at Northwestern University, whose family alleged the university mishandled her case during a prolonged federal probe into her ties with China.

In recent years, the US has intensified its examination of Chinese students and scholars, citing national security risks. During Donald Trump’s presidency, a 2020 executive order restricted visas for those suspected of military connections. The administration later pledged to “aggressively” revoke visas from students linked to the Communist Party or studying in strategic fields. Despite this, a U-turn occurred last year, with 600,000 visas issued as trade negotiations between the two nations progressed.