A significant fire broke out early on May 10, 2025, in Sanjo City, Niigata Prefecture, causing extensive damage to multiple buildings. The blaze, which originated in a mixed-use structure in Irizumi, was reported by an employee of the bar Legalis shortly before 2 AM. The worker informed the fire department that the fire started during cooking, prompting an immediate response from emergency services.
As firefighters battled the flames, the situation escalated rapidly. By 7:30 AM, more than five hours after the initial report, the fire was still not under control and had spread to at least five adjacent buildings. Fortunately, as of that time, no injuries had been reported. Fire crews continued their efforts throughout the morning, working diligently to contain the fire and prevent further damage.
According to local authorities, the fire was finally extinguished at 5:57 PM, approximately 16 hours after it began. Investigators from the police department are currently working to determine the exact cause of the fire, which has raised concerns among residents about safety protocols in mixed-use buildings.
This incident is just one of several emergencies reported in the Niigata area on the same day. In a separate case, twelve middle school students visiting from the Tokyo metropolitan area experienced symptoms after mistakenly consuming 'konyaku potatoes,' which contain toxic components. The students reported tingling sensations in their mouths and were treated for their symptoms, although no serious injuries were noted.
In Matsumoto City, a light vehicle overturned on a road near the city hall, sending one man to the hospital with injuries. Witnesses described a loud noise at the time of the accident, which startled nearby pedestrians. Emergency responders arrived quickly to assist the injured party.
Meanwhile, a 29-year-old doctor from Minato Ward in Tokyo found himself in a precarious situation while hiking in the Northern Alps. He requested rescue assistance after struggling with knee pain that made descending the mountain difficult. Local authorities dispatched a team to help him navigate safely down the trail.
In another incident, a 77-year-old woman suffered serious injuries after her vehicle rolled off a parking lot ramp and fell into a river in Saku City. Emergency services were alerted, and she was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The circumstances surrounding the accident are under investigation.
Additionally, in a tragic turn of events, a 55-year-old man was discovered unresponsive in a residential area of Niigata. Despite efforts to revive him, he was pronounced dead at the hospital. Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances leading to his death.
As the region deals with these various incidents, the community remains on high alert. The fire in Sanjo serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with cooking in mixed-use facilities and the importance of fire safety measures. Local officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity that could lead to similar emergencies.
In light of these events, the Niigata Prefecture government has vowed to enhance fire safety inspections and protocols in public buildings to prevent future incidents. As investigations continue into the causes of these emergencies, the community is coming together to support those affected and reinforce safety measures across the region.
