Chinese mahjong club owner pays US$2,800 over failed first aid, then gets refunded

A mahjong club owner in central China paid US$2,800 in compensation following a failed first aid attempt on an elderly customer, but later received a refund after government intervention. In August, a 60-year-old man named Luo visited the parlor in Hunan province and fainted while resting in a chair. The shop owner, Xiao Aihua, sensed something was wrong and attempted to provide first aid, believing Luo had heatstroke.

In her panic, Xiao dragged Luo outside to provide fresh air, struggling to call emergency services. A neighbor then called an ambulance, which arrived quickly. Luo was still alive when the ambulance arrived, but sadly died later. Luo's family reviewed the surveillance footage and accused Xiao of inadequate first aid, demanding 100,000 yuan in compensation.

Xiao's family threatened to display Luo's body in front of her shop if she refused to pay. Xiao's son offered to pay 19,000 yuan out of concern for his wife's health. After social media attention, the police concluded Luo died from a sudden illness, and authorities found Xiao had acted in good faith. China's Civil Code protects those who voluntarily help from civil liability if their actions cause harm.

Xiao's son agreed to refund the full amount, acknowledging his mistake. Luo's son admitted Xiao didn't need compensation for her good intentions. Xiao's family plans to donate part of the refund to charity, vowing to continue helping others despite the incident.