BEIJING — A video of a toddler being brutally beaten while passersby ignored the incident has sparked widespread outrage in China over bystanders' failure to intervene.
The video — which appears to be security camera footage — was posted on Sina Weibo, a site which combines Twitter and Facebook functions — and garnered millions of views.
It shows the boy apparently playing with a broom on a sidewalk before a man attacks him from behind and sends the toddler flying. The attacker kicks and stomps the boy repeatedly until the child lies motionless on the ground.
At least two people are seen walking by during the attack before a group of people run into the frame and subdue the attacker.
Local police in Luochuan County in Shaanxi, central China told NBC News on Thursday they were investigating the incident, which took place on Monday.
According to an earlier police statement, the child survived the horrific attack and was been released from the hospital after being treated for skull fractures and wounds to his hand.
The suspected attacker — 29-year-old Wang Jiaolong — reportedly has a history of mental illness and remains in police custody.
The video registered around 38 million views on China’s Weibo, where it prompted a heated debate about onlookers’ reluctance to help the child.
“It’s better to stop the crime first, then call the police. Authorities should reward those who boldly do righteous acts. Nowadays, it’s not easy to help others,” Liuyun Zhimeng posted on Weibo.