Qiqihar stadium collapse victims' identities released

Qiqihar City was struck with a devastating tragedy on the afternoon of July 23rd, when the gymnasium at the city's thirty-fourth middle school collapsed, claiming the lives of 11 teachers and students. In response to the incident, Qiqihar authorities held a press conference to provide an update on the situation.

During the accident, 14 coaches and players were inside the gymnasium when the roof suddenly caved in. The Qiqihar City Fire and Rescue Detachment was promptly notified at 2:56 PM and rushed to the scene to rescue those trapped under the rubble. Among the victims were four coaches, who sacrificed their lives while trying to save others.

The response from Qiqihar residents has been overwhelmingly emotional, with numerous citizens spontaneously offering flowers and other tributes outside the school. Piles of flowers, volleyballs, snacks, and even canned yellow peaches have been left in front of the thirty-fourth middle school entrance as a sign of respect for the victims.

The incident has raised questions about the effectiveness of safety training in the city. Earlier this month, an official propaganda from the Heilongjiang Emergency Management Agency boasted of Qiqihar's successful completion of 200,000 safety trainings. However, the tragedy at the thirty-fourth middle school seems to contradict these claims.

The public has also expressed grief and anger over the situation. Some have accused local florists of raising prices for flowers to be used in memorials, deeming it as insensitive and opportunistic. Others have shared their condolences on social media, with heartfelt messages and tributes pouring in from all corners of China.

As the investigation into the cause of the collapse continues, many citizens are calling for accountability and justice for the victims. They demand that those responsible for the tragedy be held accountable and severely punished to console the grieving parents and friends of the deceased.