6 are killed in stabbing at kindergarten in China
NBCJul 05, 2023
The Facts
At least 11 are dead after a middle school gymnasium collapsed in China’s northeastern city of Qiqihar Sunday afternoon. According to the municipality's search and rescue headquarters, 19 people were in the gym during the collapse with four escaping and 15 remaining trapped at the time.
The gym was being used by a girls' volleyball team, with eyewitnesses telling the media that most of the victims were children. Parents have reportedly criticized the school for a lack of communication during the rescue effort, which lasted until Monday morning.
The Spin
Anti-China narrative
China has a serious construction problem due to its architectural industry being in its infancy and contractors cutting regulatory corners. Unlike in the US or Europe, which have checks and balances between architects, general contractors, and material suppliers these internal controls are currently lacking in the PRC. Between corruption and lack of technical preparation, buildings are often left vulnerable to tragedies like this one.
Pro-China narrative
While mistakes were made resulting in this tragic collapse, the PRC government takes its construction regulations seriously, with penalties of up to seven years in prison for violating safety measures. The company at fault was highly successful, securing 17 projects in the past three years, including ten government projects — those responsible have tarnished their reputation and will be charged through investigation and due process.
