CHENGDU – A grieving mother wrote a tearful post on Weibo, alleging that Chengdu’s No.49 Middle School administrators had prevented her from knowing the real reason behind her son’s death.
She was informed that her son had died after falling from a high place last Sunday (May 9) and tried getting CCTV footage of the incident but claimed that the school refused to provide further information.
The next day (May 10), the school released an official response saying that they immediately called the police after receiving news that a student had plunged from the building at about 6.40 pm.
However, the student did not show any vital signs when the police arrived on the scene.
“The school is deeply saddened by the student’s unfortunate death. A task force has been established to fully cooperate with the investigation and make every effort in dealing with the aftermath.”
Earlier today (May 11), the Education Bureau of Chenghua District, Chengdu City, Sichuan Province, issued a circular about the student’s sudden demise and expressed deep sorrow and sympathy for his parents and relatives.
A joint investigation team was also formed to uncover the truth behind the incident. It comprises the Publicity Department of the District Party Committee, the Political and Legal Committee of the District Party Committee, the District Public Security Bureau, and the District Education Bureau.
After an exhaustive forensic investigation, the team concluded that there was no foul play involved as there were footprints and fingerprints to suggest that the incident could have been an accident. They also said that the injuries were in line with fatalities caused by falling off a high place.
The team also dug into the student’s school record, and it showed no evidence to suggest that he was a victim of bullying or abuse by fellow students and teachers. Thus, they concluded that he most likely killed himself over personal problems.
Together with the relevant departments, the District Education Bureau announced its plans to strengthen mental health awareness by providing a platform for full-time psychologists to offer students, parents, and teachers counselling.
“We will pay more attention in educating students how to cherish their lives and have reverence and respect for it while striving to help every child grow up healthily.”
However, the mother refused to accept the Education Bureau’s explanation and report.
“I hereby solemnly declare that I disagree with the statement issued by Chenghua District this morning. I will continue to ask the police and the school to give me the truth. I will not walk away with this result.
“My son went to school alive and happy, only to be dead an hour later. I will continue to uphold my right to a fair investigation and will appeal!
She then posted another picture of her son, saying she has not returned home and did not sleep for days.
Meanwhile, rumours have been swirling on Weibo, claiming that the case was tied to a Chemistry teacher, but the school has vehemently denied it.
What do you think about it?
Sources: Weibo
Editor: Raymond Chen
Proofreader: Sarah Yeoh
