A tragic traffic accident occurred early on January 22, 2023, claiming the life of 19-year-old Yomi Saku, who was struck by a car driven by Reihhei Ikeda, 34, believed to have been under the influence of alcohol.
The incident took place at approximately 6:30 AM at the intersection near JR Koriyama Station, located on the main street of the city of Koriyama, Fukushima Prefecture. Reports indicate Yomi was crossing the pedestrian lane when she was hit by Ikeda's light vehicle.
Yomi Saku, from Minoh City, Osaka Prefecture, was visiting Koriyama to take her university entrance examination scheduled for January 22. She had arrived the previous day to prepare for the important test, which was meant to pave the way for her future academic pursuits.
Eyewitnesses described the harrowing moment; Yomi was reportedly crossing the street with the pedestrian signal indicating green when Ikeda's vehicle sped through the intersection without slowing down. After the impact, she was thrown approximately 20 meters before landing on the road. She sustained severe injuries, which included significant head trauma.
Emergency services quickly arrived on the scene and rushed Yomi to the nearest hospital, where she remained unconscious for several hours before being pronounced dead at approximately 2:30 PM.
Upon investigating the site, local police found strong evidence of Ikeda’s intoxication. According to police reports, Ikeda underwent breathalyzer tests shortly after the incident, which revealed blood alcohol levels exceeding the legal limit. Witnesses and security camera footage from the area showed the driver failing to yield at the crosswalk.
"I definitely had been drinking and caused the accident," Ikeda stated during police questioning, admitting his guilt almost immediately. The police arrested him at the scene on charges of negligent driving resulting in injury and driving under the influence.
Authorities highlighted the dangers posed by careless and impaired driving, particularly around busy pedestrian zones. The accident has sparked local unrest and calls for stricter enforcement of traffic laws to keep communities safe. An area near Koriyama Police Station, known for foot traffic, has experienced increased scrutiny since the incident.
Local officials remarked, "This area has pedestrian traffic and vehicles frequently pass by; it’s imperative for all drivers to stay vigilant and sober. These incidents are tragic and preventable. We need to make changes to protect our citizens and students."
Investigators are exploring the possibility of elevations to charges against Ikeda, including vehicular homicide, as the investigation continues to gather additional details about the circumstances surrounding the accident.
The community is mourning the loss of Yomi, who had ambitions of pursuing higher education, and her death has underscored the potentially fatal consequences of drunk driving. Celebrated as a diligent student and aspiring scholar, Yomi's untimely passing serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance and safety on the roads.