A young woman died and two were injured after a fight with a robber who attempted to grab their money and articles in east China's business hub Shanghai, witnesses and police said on Thursday.

A male suspect attacked the victims at around 1 p.m. Thursday in an alley in Jing'an District, witnesses said. The suspect fled after a fierce fight with the three, leaving a hammer with blood stains at the scene.

The three - two males in their 30s and a young woman - were rushed to Huadong Hospital. The female died in hospital despite doctors' efforts.

The two men were also seriously injured in the head and breast. Doctors said they needed operations.

Police are still hunting the murderer, and believe he may have known the three victims.

(Xinhua News Agency August 14, 2008)