Four American educators from Cornell College in Iowa were injured in a stabbing attack in a public park in Jilin province, China, on Monday.
The incident was described by China’s foreign ministry as a random attack, and an investigation is ongoing. The educators, who were on a teaching exchange program, were visiting a temple in Beishan Park when they were attacked by a man with a knife. The victims were taken to the hospital and are receiving medical care.
According to Iowa Representative Adam Zabner, his brother David was among the victims and was injured in the arm.
David is recovering from his injuries and is doing well. The incident has sparked concerns about safety for foreigners in China, particularly following Chinese President Xi Jinping’s pledge to invite 50,000 young Americans to China for study programs.
However, a US State Department Level 3 travel advisory to China remains in place, warning of possible arbitrary detention and exit bans.
The incident has also raised questions about censorship in China, with some social media users questioning why the government did not report the incident widely.
A video of the aftermath of the attack, which showed people lying on the ground covered in blood, was circulated on social media, but it was later removed. The US State Department has confirmed that it is aware of the reports and is monitoring the situation.
The incident has highlighted concerns about safety for foreigners in China, particularly in light of the government’s efforts to boost people-to-people ties with the US.
