The driver, Zhang Mingbao, 43, a manager of a local real estate company, has been detained by police. He has not been charged.

Local media reports said Zhang has committed nearly 80 driving offenses, including 39 for speeding, in less than three years.

In footage broadcast on a local television station, Zhang said he had consumed some wine before driving home.

"I feel as if I am a butcher. I'm so sorry for the victims and their families. I am also afraid now," he said.

Zheng Lin was seen in this undated picture. [File Photo: xkb.com.cn]

Zhang said he would try his best to compensate the victims' families, even selling his cars and house.

Tests after the accident showed Zhang's blood alcohol content was 381 milligrams per 100 milliliters of blood. A person is considered drunk at 80 milligrams per 100 milliliters, meaning Zhang's blood alcohol level was nearly five times the legal limit.

According to Chinese law, people charged with a "traffic offense resulting in death" may face up to seven years punishment in prison.

"The driver should be charged with an offense against public safety," said Jia Zheng, a Jiangsu Province-based lawyer, "The driver knew his drunken driving may put pedestrians at risk. That is intentional behavior, not inattentive driving," he said.

If charged with an offense against public safety through dangerous means, the driver could face the death penalty. The minimum penalty for this crime is 10 years in prison.

Some lawyers said when the driver hit the first victim it was a "traffic offense resulting in death" but the following fatal hit and run should be considered a crime against public safety.

(China Daily July 7, 2009)