A tragic road incident in Danzhou has sparked widespread concern after a 12-year-old boy allegedly stole a family vehicle and caused a fatal crash that claimed multiple lives.
The incident reportedly took place on April 7 in Hainan, where the boy is said to have taken control of a black Mercedes-Benz and driven it for approximately 3km along public roads before losing control.
Witnesses described the vehicle as moving erratically, with several claiming it appeared to be completely out of control. The situation quickly escalated into a deadly حادث involving pedestrians and other road users in the vicinity.
MULTIPLE CASUALTIES REPORTED INCLUDING CHILDREN
网传海南男孩驾奔驰一路乱撞 造成至少3亡
— 德潤傳媒 (@DXDWX999) April 10, 2026
日前，海南儋州发生一起驾车撞人事件。一名男孩嗑药后开车在大街上一路冲撞，据传至少造成三人死亡。… pic.twitter.com/pGmjTCFWur
According to reports, the boy’s actions led to a series of collisions involving cars, motorcycles, and pedestrians. At least three individuals were allegedly killed in the crash, including two children and an elderly person.
Footage circulating online showed a chaotic aftermath, with debris scattered across the road and several damaged motorcycles lying near the crash site. The vehicle eventually came to a halt after slamming into the entrance steps of a supermarket.
In one widely shared clip, an elderly victim could be seen lying motionless on the ground as bystanders gathered around the scene. The severity of the crash has raised questions about how such an incident could unfold involving a minor.
ALLEGATIONS OF DRUG MISUSE UNDER INVESTIGATION
Authorities reportedly discovered that the driver was only around 12 years old upon arrival at the scene. It is believed that the vehicle had been rented by his family before being taken without permission.
Unverified claims circulating online suggest the boy may have been under the influence of Dextromethorphan, a common over-the-counter cough suppressant. Some netizens alleged that an overdose could have contributed to impaired judgement and motor control.
Medical sources note that excessive consumption of such medication can lead to serious side effects, including hallucinations, dissociative episodes, and aggressive behaviour — all of which could severely affect one’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.
NO OFFICIAL STATEMENT RELEASED YET
As of now, authorities in China have not issued a formal statement confirming the exact cause of the incident or the allegations surrounding drug involvement.
The case has nevertheless ignited intense debate online, particularly regarding access to vehicles by minors and the potential misuse of easily available medications. Questions are also being raised about parental responsibility and public safety safeguards.
The shocking nature of the crash has left many calling for stricter controls and clearer regulations to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future, especially when vulnerable lives are at stake.