Authorities in the southern Chinese city of Zhuhai on Tuesday said 35 people were killed and another 43 were injured when a car ploughed into people exercising around a sports centre.

A suspect has been taken into custody, and President Xi Jinping has urged all-out efforts to treat the injured.

Local police said that a "serious and vicious attack" occurred at Zhuhai Sports Centre on Monday evening.

Police said a man drove an SUV through the gate and forced his way into the sports centre.

The 62-year-old suspect was subdued as he tried to flee the scene.

Officers added that they found him cutting himself with a knife, before they stopped him and sent him to hospital, where he is currently in a coma after self-inflicted injuries to his neck and other parts of his body.

Police also said preliminary investigations suggested that the actions of the driver "stemmed from his dissatisfaction with the property division outcome of his divorce".

Xi gave instructions on the case and demanded that the perpetrator be severely punished according to the law.

The president also urged authorities to do more to ensure safety and protect people's lives and social stability. (Xinhua/AFP)