Police officer sacrifices his life to rescue a woman in a river in China
The tragedy has sparked outrage over the woman's behavior during the rescue
On August 23, 2024, in Du'an Yao Autonomous County, Guangxi, a tragedy occurred that has left the population outraged. Li Xie, a 39-year-old police officer, sacrificed his life to save a woman who jumped into the Chengjiang River near Fengyuqiao, in the city of Anyang. Despite his heroic efforts, the officer slowly sank to the bottom of the river and lost his life.
Li Xie, originally from the Zhuang ethnic group, served as a second-level sergeant at the Anyang police station and was known for his dedication to service. In 2022, his outstanding work earned him recognition as an exemplary official by Du'an Yao Autonomous County.
The tragedy began when, at approximately 11:50 p.m., Li Xie noticed that a woman had jumped into the river in an apparent attempt to take her own life. Without hesitation, the officer jumped into the water to rescue her, without even taking off his clothes. He managed to push the woman to the shore, but the strong current and the exhausting struggle to keep her safe left him without strength, leading him to his tragic fate.
However, what has most outraged netizens and viewers is the woman's behavior during the rescue. According to a video recorded at the scene, the woman, who apparently knew how to swim, used the officer as a support to stay afloat, repeatedly pushing him underwater. Even when onlookers threw a rope to save the officer, the woman, in a desperate act, prevented him from reaching her, prioritizing her own survival.
It has been reported that the woman was not a local, but was visiting a relative's home. Despite her apparent attempt to take her own life, her behaviour underwater has drawn strong criticism as she appeared to be completely aware of her actions and used techniques to stay afloat.
This tragic event has left a family shattered. Li Xie, who was the pillar of his home, leaves behind twin sons who are barely in kindergarten. The officer is a hero who, in an act of duty, gave his life to save another regardless of the consequences.