A man in Guang’an, China reportedly dug his own grave and waited in it in anticipation of his death.

According to local reports, the man, identified as 72-year-old Xiang Chaojie, had consulted a prophetess last year following a long period of cancer illness.

The prophetess reportedly told him that he would die on March 23 this year. This prompted Xiang to prepare for his passing.

Family sources said the man prepared the grave next to his house, gave away some of his possessions and bid farewell to his friends and family.

On the 23rd, he entered the grave and waited. When his time didn’t come, he remained in the rave and fell asleep.

Xiang’s niece, while checking up on him, found him and called the local police in panic. Police were then able to get him out and took him to hospital, where he received medical attention.

Xiang’s friends and family members said they were all along unconvinced about the prophecy. They hoped he would now get back to his life as usual.