Battery Exploded — 90% of His Body Burned!
A university student's life changed forever after a lithium battery exploded, causing severe burns and legal battles. This tragic accident warns of hidden dangers at home.
On the night of July 9, 2024, a tragic accident unfolded at a rented apartment outside Wuhan City College where third-year student Du Junhao suffered catastrophic injuries when a lithium battery exploded, causing flames to engulf the room. His roommate, Li, had removed the electric bike battery and brought it inside to charge — an action that led to the sudden burst into flames. This devastating event trapped Du in the fire for about 30 seconds, resulting in severe burns over 90% of his body, respiratory injuries, and shock.
The Horrifying Incident and Aftermath
The explosion was not only sudden but horrific in its impact. The escape route was blocked, and Du Junhao was unable to flee the burning room immediately. His injuries are profound; according to his mother, "there is no patch of unscarred skin left" for hand skin grafting, and he currently suffers intense itching and pain as his body battles through the scar tissue growth phase. Medical treatments for Du have already exceeded 3 million yuan, illustrating the severe physical and financial toll of this accident.
Questions remain regarding the actions of his roommate—some concerns focus on whether Li closed the door after escaping, potentially worsening Du’s chances of survival by limiting oxygen flow or delaying rescue.
Legal Proceedings and Family Struggles
The civil portion of the case is set for trial on August 1, 2025, after a failed mediation session earlier that April. The family seeks answers and accountability, underscoring the lasting impact of this preventable accident.
This case shines a harsh spotlight on the dangers posed by lithium batteries when mishandled, especially indoors. It is a stark reminder that safety measures when charging or storing these batteries are critical to prevent similar tragedies.
A Call for Awareness and Safety
As electric bikes and lithium batteries become increasingly common, understanding the risks and practicing safe charging habits can save lives. This incident deeply troubles anyone who hears it, highlighting the fragility of safety and the profound consequences of one moment’s negligence.
Du Junhao’s story is a painful call for vigilance and awareness to prevent others from facing similar nightmares.
