Girl killed by man with mental illness history sparks debate over criminal responsibility

(ECNS) -- A 19-year-old university student was fatally stabbed and another young woman injured at a tourist site in Nanchang, east China's Jiangxi Province, on Sunday. Local police identified the suspect as a 23-year-old man with a mental illness record.

The incident occurred at about 1:40 p.m. on Sunday at the Meihu Scenic Area, part of the Bada Shanren tourist site in Qingyunpu District. The suspect used scissors in the assault and has been taken into custody, according to police.

The victim, Liu, was a first-year student at the China Foreign Affairs University and due to begin her second year in September, according to a fellow student.

Unverified accounts circulating among students and on social media alleged that Liu was wearing traditional Hanfu clothing and taking photos with friends when the suspect approached her on an electric scooter. After she declined his interaction, he allegedly stabbed her multiple times. Another young woman, surnamed Shi, was stabbed in the lung but survived after receiving help from bystanders.

Screenshots attributed to the victim's family claimed Liu was stabbed more than 10 times and died before medical assistance arrived.

Police have not confirmed these details.

On Tuesday, the university's student affairs office issued a safety notice on its WeChat account, urging students to remain alert to personal and travel safety during the summer break.

The case has reignited public debate about the criminal responsibility of people with psychiatric conditions.

Zhang Xiaobin, a lawyer from Beijing Yuecheng Law Firm, told China News Network that according to Chinese Criminal Law, individuals with mental illness who cause harmful outcomes while unable to recognise or control their actions, as confirmed through legal procedures, are exempt from criminal liability. However, their families or guardians must strictly supervise and provide medical treatment, and the government may enforce compulsory medical care if necessary.

Zhang added that those with intermittent mental illness who commit crimes while mentally competent are fully liable. Similarly, patients who have not completely lost the ability to recognise or control their behaviour should bear criminal responsibility but may receive reduced or lighter sentences.

(By Evelyn)