A small aircraft is reported to have struck Beijing’s tallest skyscraper on Friday afternoon, prompting an emergency response in the heart of the Chinese capital.
Eyewitness footage shared online showed debris falling from the 109-story CITIC Tower, also known as China Zun, along with images suggesting damage near the building and emergency vehicles arriving at the scene.
People were reportedly evacuated from the skyscraper, with fire trucks, police units and ambulances later seen gathered around the area as authorities secured the surroundings.
Officials have not yet issued a detailed public statement on the incident. A call placed to the relevant district branch of the Beijing Public Security Bureau reportedly indicated that staff were not aware of the situation at the time.
Local reports suggest the aircraft may be a small domestic light sport plane linked to a general aviation operator involved in training and recreational flight services, though this has not been independently confirmed.
Unverified flight tracking data circulating online appeared to show an unusual flight path shortly after takeoff from a nearby airport.
The situation remains under investigation, and authorities are expected to provide further clarification as more information becomes available.
Mariam Balogun is a contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
