A 21-year-old Wuhan City College student suffered burns to 90% of his body when his roommate’s electric bicycle battery exploded in their apartment in July 2024.
Du Junhao was gravely injured when his roommate Li Jiajun’s e-bike battery caught fire at 6 am, releasing toxic gas throughout their rented flat.
Du had warned Li multiple times about the dangers of charging the e-bike indoors, but Li ignored these warnings.
Security footage showed Li fleeing the scene after the explosion and then returning to close the door with Du still trapped inside.
The door’s automatic locking mechanism kept Du trapped for 30 seconds, during which he inhaled toxic fumes and suffered severe burns.
Du broke his silence about the incident on his 22nd birthday on April 11, 2025, stating he would never forgive Li.
“My parents had to borrow money everywhere to save me, and they suffered from the pain of donating me their skin,” Du said.
The explosion derailed Du’s plans to open a furniture installation business after graduation.
Over the past 10 months, Du has undergone 12 skin graft operations. His father has had five surgeries to provide skin for his son.
Two fingers on Du’s left hand were amputated. He also suffered respiratory tract damage from inhaling toxic smoke.
Du now needs 24-hour care and cannot be exposed to sunlight. More than 80% of his body lacks pores, leaving him unable to sweat. He struggles to stand after sitting for long periods.
The family has spent 2.8 million yuan (S$502,000) on Du’s treatment, plus daily expenses.
They received 2.6 million yuan (S$466,000) in online donations, but Du’s father said they cannot continue asking for money.
Legal action against Li, the landlord, and the battery manufacturer has yielded little result.
Li’s family has paid only 10,000 yuan (S$1,800) in compensation, claiming financial hardship.
Li was detained on charges of negligence causing serious injury, an offense carrying a maximum three-year prison sentence under Chinese law.
Despite his trauma, Du recently adopted a dog to lift his spirits.
“My life is not just mine,” he said, acknowledging his parents’ sacrifices.
Du is currently receiving treatment at a Chinese scar repair center.
He hopes his skin will recover quickly and wants to use his laptop again. He also wishes to take graduation photos at his college this spring.
His father’s wish is simpler: “As long as he can live, we will look after him.”
