Relative of US volleyball coach killed

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The United States Olympic Committee confirmed the attack in a statement, acknowledging that the two relatives were visiting the Drum Tower near the Forbidden City when they were attacked by a lone assailant, who reportedly wielded a knife.

One individual was killed while the other was seriously wounded before the assailant committed suicide.

The state-run Xinhua News Agency identified the attacker as Tang Yongming, 47, from the eastern city of Hangzhou.

Police blocked off streets leading to the Drum Tower immediately after the attack and cordoned off the area with police tape. Security officers were examining the scene.

The bizarre attack comes less than a day after the magnificent opening ceremony for the XXIX Olympiad, placing a major shadow over the Games.

An International Olympic Committee statement said: "The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is deeply saddened to learn of a tragic incident which occurred on Saturday involving two relatives of a coach for the United States Olympic Men's Indoor Volleyball Team.

"The United States Olympic Committee has confirmed that while visiting the Drum Tower tourist site in Beijing, near the Forbidden City, two family members were subjected to a violent attack. One person was killed and the other seriously injured. It is understood at this time that a lone assailant was responsible, who shortly afterwards committed suicide.

"The IOC would like to extend sincere condolences to the family and teammates of those involved, and to all members of the US delegation.

"The IOC will provide whatever assistance is required, and is in close contact with the US Olympic Committee. The IOC is also working closely with the Chinese authorities to obtain information on this incident as soon as possible."