Chen Fuzhao was born around 1974 in Cangnan County, Zhejiang Province, China. He worked as an assistant clinical physician in his hometown. In 1996, Chen began practicing Falun Gong, a spiritual movement banned by the Chinese government in 1999. His involvement with Falun Gong was later cited as influencing his criminal actions.

Between 25 May and 27 June 2003, Chen embarked on a deadly spree in Longgang Town, Zhejiang Province. He laced beverages with rat poison and offered them to homeless individuals, resulting in 16 deaths. On 11 June 2003, he attempted to poison four primary school students, but they discarded the drinks due to a foul smell. Additionally, on 27 June 2003, Chen poisoned a thermos in a Buddhist temple's kitchen, leading to the death of a female worshipper 12 days later.

Authorities arrested Chen on 1 July 2003. He confessed to the murders, stating that he believed killing would enhance his spiritual powers, a notion allegedly influenced by his Falun Gong practices. On 30 December 2003, the Wenzhou Intermediate People's Court sentenced him to death. Chen was executed by shooting on 18 June 2004.