Chinese National Dies in Milan Hospital Following Confrontation with Police
Milan, February 7 – Liu Wenham, a 30-year-old Chinese national, has died at Niguarda Hospital in Milan, five days after being gravely wounded in a confrontation with police. The incident, which occurred in the Rogoredo district, involved Wenham stealing a pistol from a security guard and allegedly firing at police officers.
The Rogoredo Incident: Theft and Confrontation
The events unfolded last Sunday when Wenham, described as an irregular immigrant and homeless, reportedly stole a Walther P99 pistol from a security guard. He then allegedly turned the weapon on three Uopi (Unità Operativa di Pronto Intervento) officers. Police responded by firing, critically injuring Wenham with a gunshot to the head and an arm. He had been hospitalized since the incident.
This event follows another fatal police shooting in Rogoredo just days prior, where a 28-year-old Moroccan drug dealer was killed by another officer.
Prior Encounters and Mental Health Concerns
Wenham had a history of encounters with law enforcement, often exhibiting erratic behavior. In the days leading up to the shooting, he had been stopped multiple times by Polfer (Railway Police) for various incidents, including carrying stones in Rogoredo on January 30, threatening a security guard with broom handles at Centrale Station on January 31, and attempting to steal a screwdriver from a construction site at Centrale on February 1. He was reportedly released after these incidents, sometimes returning stolen items immediately.
On January 31, officers had him admitted to a psychiatric facility due to his disruptive behavior and self-harm, as he was reportedly hitting his head and complaining of pain. However, he was discharged just a few hours later.
Investigation Underway, Officer Under Scrutiny
The officer who fired the shots that critically wounded Wenham has been formally placed under investigation. This is a standard procedure in such cases, serving as a guarantee for the ongoing investigation and necessary for a full assessment of the facts.
The authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, including Wenham’s mental state and the sequence of events that led to the fatal shooting. The outcome of the investigation will determine if any charges will be filed against the officer involved.
The death of Liu Wenham has prompted further discussions in Milan regarding police procedures, the handling of individuals with mental health issues, and the broader implications for public safety in the city’s peripheral areas.
