Los Angeles, California: In a shocking incident that occurred in Chinese territory, four instructors from Cornell College in Mount Vernon, Iowa, were stabbed by a 55-year-old suspect at Beishan Park, Jilin City, China, while partaking in a cultural exchange program with Beihua University.
The Chinese officials swiftly responded by providing medical treatment to the injured instructors, reassuring the public that their lives were not in danger. The suspect was promptly arrested by the police, who described the attack as an isolated incident under ongoing investigation.
Among the victims was David Zabner, a Ph.D. student at Tufts University, who sustained a stab wound to the arm during the attack. His brother, Iowa state Rep. Adam Zabner, expressed relief that David survived the ordeal and thanked the authorities for their efforts in ensuring David’s safe return to Iowa.
Furthermore, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds reached out to the state department and Iowa’s federal delegation, urging for prayers for the full recovery and safe return of the injured instructors. The Department of State acknowledged the incident in Jilin, People’s Republic of China, stating that they are closely monitoring the situation.
In response to the incident, officials emphasized the importance of cultural exchanges between the U.S. and China, affirming that such events are in the mutual interest of both nations. They also reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safety of all foreigners in China amidst sporadic cases of violence.
Cornell College, a renowned liberal arts institution in Iowa, expressed concern for the safety of its instructors and reaffirmed its commitment to fostering international partnerships through educational programs. The college’s collaboration with Beihua University aims to promote cross-cultural understanding and academic collaboration.
As investigations into the attack continue, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding the well-being of individuals engaged in educational initiatives abroad. The resilience displayed by the injured instructors and the swift response of authorities highlight the need for continued support and vigilance in promoting international cooperation and cultural exchange.