Small Aircraft Hits Beijing's Tallest Skyscraper, Prompting Evacuations

A light sport aircraft collided with Beijing's tallest skyscraper, the Citic Tower, on Friday afternoon, sending debris raining down on the city's central business district and triggering evacuations. The incident occurred around 5:40 p.m. local time.

Videos circulating on social media captured the moment the aircraft struck the upper floors of the 528-meter (1,732-foot) tower. Chunks of wreckage were seen falling onto the pavement and green spaces below. Additional footage showed occupants being evacuated from the building.

It is not immediately clear how many people were on board the aircraft, whether there were any casualties, or the circumstances that led to the crash. A woman identified only as Lin told the South China Morning Post that she was urgently evacuated from the building at 6 p.m., stating, "I ran out without my ID card or bag."

A bystander working in a nearby building reported hearing a loud noise but did not witness the crash itself. Police quickly cordoned off the area surrounding the Citic Tower, dispersing onlookers and maintaining a significant presence. Several ambulances were observed near the building.

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I ran out without my ID card or bag.