Beijing to tighten security after stabbing

Olympic organisers have vowed to tighten security in central Beijing after an American tourist died in a stabbing attack.

Todd Bachman and his wife Barbara, who are the parents-in law of the coach of the US men's volleyball team, were attacked near the popular tourist spot, the Drum Tower.

Mr Bachman died and his wife suffered multiple lacerations.

Their attacker, an unemployed Chinese man, leapt to his death from the 45metre tower.

Beijing Olympic spokesman Wang Wei said: "We are going to strengthen the security at scenic spots... to make sure no sharp weapons can be brought into the area.

"Beijing is a safe city but unfortunately we are not immune to violent acts," he said, adding that there was no reason to believe the attack was targeted at Americans.

Chinese President Hu Jintao expressed regret during a meeting with US President George Bush and said: "I would like to express my heartfelt sympathy to you and the family of the victims over this unfortunate incident."

Mrs Bachman was in a critical but stable condition after undergoing eight hours of surgery, while a tour guide who was also injured in the attack was out of danger.

Police have said the attacker, Tang Yongming, 47, from the eastern city of Hangzhou, had no previous criminal record and they had no idea what his motives were.

The US men's volleyball team observed a moment of silence before their preliminary pool match.

In a statement the team said: "We are absolutely devastated by what has occurred, for their loss and for everything they are going through."

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