A teenager’s mysterious death in Pucheng, Shaanxi province, sparked violent protests after social media allegations suggested a possible cover-up by authorities, reported BBC.
Videos verified by BBC show protesters clashing with police at the Pucheng Vocational Education Centre, where the student reportedly fell to his death from a dormitory building on January 2. Demonstrators hurled objects at officers while authorities used batons to subdue some participants.

Local authorities maintain the incident was an accident, stating that 17-year-old Dang, a third-year student, fell following an altercation with a dormitory roommate.
A school official reportedly intervened to resolve the dispute, but Dang’s body was later discovered at the foot of the dormitory block, according to a government statement cited by the BBC. Officials claimed that investigations ruled out criminal activity.
However, various unverified social media posts alleged Dang had been bullied, while remarks attributed to his family questioned the consistency of the authorities’ account with the condition of his body. Videos shared on platforms like X showed residents mourning Dang’s death, placing flowers at the school’s entrance and performing traditional rituals.
Footage also depicted young demonstrators storming school buildings, confronting officials, and clashing with heavily armed police. Authorities reportedly deployed tear gas and increased their presence to quell protests.
Despite official denials of demonstrations, the BBC confirmed the authenticity of clips showing protests and damage at the site. Calls from authorities urged residents to refrain from spreading “rumours” or speculating about the incident.