NAGANO, Japan - A stabbing incident at JR Nagano Station has left one dead and two injured, leading to the arrest of a suspect identified as a man in his 40s. The attack took place on January 22, around 8 PM, near the station's Zenkoji exit, where three individuals were attacked by the assailant wielding a knife. The incident has shocked the community and raised concerns over public safety.
According to police reports, the fatal victim has been identified as 49-year-old Hiroyuki Maruyama, who suffered fatal injuries during the attack. Two others, including a 37-year-old man and a 46-year-old woman, sustained injuries, with the latter currently recovering from multiple stab wounds. The nature of the attack has been deemed indiscriminate, as the victims were previously unknown to the suspect.
Following the incident, the suspect fled the scene, prompting authorities to initiate a widespread manhunt. Utilizing CCTV footage from nearby establishments, the police were able to trace the suspect back to his home, approximately three kilometers from the crime scene. On January 26, around 7 AM, the police arrested the suspect at his apartment complex located near the residential area of West Owari.
Witness reports and information relayed to the police led to increased awareness within the community. By January 25, the police had compiled around 240 tips related to the incident. The aggressive approach taken by the Nagano prefectural police involved the deployment of 33 patrol cars, 14 motorcycles, and even aerial support via helicopter to locate the suspect.
After his arrest, the suspect was escorted to Nagano Central Police Station, where he displayed little emotion and followed the instructions of officers without resistance. Local residents expressed mixed emotions following the news of the arrest, with many feeling relieved, yet saddened by the tragic events. One traveler visiting Nagano stated, "I'm glad he was caught. My heart aches for the family left behind," highlighting the community’s collective grief.
Remembering the fallen victim, Hiroyuki Maruyama's friends and family gathered flowers and paid tribute to him, underscoring the loss felt by those who knew him. One acquaintance remarked, "I reported the arrest of the suspect to Maruyama's friends," reinforcing the solidarity among the victim’s circle during this difficult time.
Law enforcement agencies are continuing their investigation to ascertain more details about the attack and the suspect's motives. Authorities have not confirmed any prior relationship between the victims and the suspect, though they are treating the incident as random violence. Community leaders are also discussing potential safety measures to prevent similar occurrences and restore public trust.
This incident has led to heightened security measures around public places, as residents call for more protection and vigilance to safeguard against unexpected acts of violence.
The police department plans to conduct a press conference to elaborate on the arrest and the continuing investigation, hoping to provide clarity to the anxious public. Meanwhile, the community remains on alert, reflective of the tragic night when three lives were irrevocably changed.