US condemns bombing attack in China's Xinjiang

WASHINGTON - The United States on Thursday denounced a deadly bombing attack at a railway station in Urumqi, capital of Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, saying it appeared to be "an act of terrorism."

State Department spokeswoman Marie Harf said the United States "condemns the horrific and despicable acts of violence against innocent civilians" at the train station.

"Based on the information we've seen, including what's been reported by the Chinese media, this appears to be an act of terrorism that targeted random members of the public," she told reporters at a regular news briefing.

"I don't have further information about the attack, about the identity or motivation of the attackers," she said, adding "We offer our condolence and sympathies to the victims, their families, and all those affected by this tragedy."

Three people, including two suspects, were confirmed dead, and 79 others injured in the attack on Wednesday evening local time. Four people were seriously injured but in stable condition.

An initial police investigation showed knife-wielding mobs slashed people at the exit of the South Railway Station of Urumqi and set off explosives, local authorities said.