The instructors from Cornell College in Mount Vernon, Iowa, were at a public park with a faculty member of their partner institution when they were injured “in a serious incident,” school President Jonathan Brand was quoted as saying by CNN in a statement to the college community.

“We have been in contact with all four instructors and are assisting them during this time,” Brand said.

School spokesperson Jen Visser told CNN the stabbing incident happened in Jilin City and the partner school is Beihua University.

According to reports, no student was participating in the program.

Iowa Rep. Ashley Hinson, who represents the district where the college is located, said she felt 'horrified' after coming to know about the incident.

"Horrified that multiple Cornell College faculty members were brutally stabbed in China," she posted on X.

"My team has been in communication with Cornell College & will do everything in our power to bring these Iowans home safely. Join me in praying for their health & safety," she said.

A US State Department spokesperson told the BBC they were aware of reports of a stabbing incident in Jilin, but could not provide more information.

Several images of the incident where three injured people were lying on the ground.

Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst said her team is closely monitoring the incident which happened in China.

She said: " We are in touch with the college and the State Department, and stand ready to further assist these Iowans. Praying for a speedy recovery for all."