On March 11, 2025, Tokyo's Shinjuku Ward became the scene of a horrific crime as 22-year-old Eri Sato was fatally stabbed during a live stream near Takadanobaba Station. The suspect, 42-year-old Kengo Takano from Oyama City, Tochigi Prefecture, was arrested on the spot for attempted murder, with authorities quickly moving to upgrade the charges to murder due to the severity of the attack.
According to police reports, the incident unfolded around 9:50 AM, shocking viewers who were tuning in to Sato's livestream. The young woman, known for her engaging online presence, was abruptly attacked, sustaining dozens of stab wounds before being rushed to the hospital, where she later died.
Witnesses recounted the moment of the attack as chaotic, with Sato seemingly unaware of the danger before she was ambushed. Takano, who had been following her live-streaming activities since December 2021, denied having any murderous intentions, stating, "I didn't intend to kill her." He claims he simply wanted to confront her about money he had allegedly lent her.
Stunned investigators revealed the grim details of Sato’s injuries, which included wounds to her neck, face, and torso, indicating the nature of the assault was intense and premeditated. Initial examinations determined the weapon used was a survival knife with a blade approximately 13 centimeters long, and another knife was found in Takano's backpack.
Following his arrest, Takano provided police with insight about his relationship with Sato. He claimed to have lent her over 2 million yen (about $18,000) for her mobile phone bills and other living expenses, only to be met with refusal when he sought repayment. The suspect also detailed how Sato had previously asked him to help financially support her relatives.
Investigators are exploring the possible underlying grudge Takano harbored, fueled by what he described as repeated failures to reclaim his money. There had been previous interactions between Takano and the Tochigi Prefectural Police. Reports indicated he had called them last January to express frustrations about being unable to collect debt from Sato, saying, "I lent money to someone who has become untraceable."
Sato had undoubtedly made connections through her online streams, but little did she know these interactions could turn dire. Takano's admission reveals more than just lending—there appears to be emotional turmoil wrapped up with expectations of repayment and personal betrayal, leading him down this violent path.
While Takano’s defense hinges upon his insistence of no lethal intent, the investigation is poised to challenge this claim. The Tokyo Metropolitan Police are deeply concerned about the increased incidence of violence related to financial disputes and personal grievances, especially those surfacing from online interactions.
Authority spokespersons noted the rise of such violent confrontations poses wider societal risks, as more individuals blend their personal and digital lives, sometimes with disastrous results. The shocking murder of Eri Sato highlights the dark side of internet fame, where followers can turn dangerously obsessive.
Takano remains under police custody as they investigate the full scope of his intentions and actions leading to Sato's demise. The case raises questions about how far personal relationships extend within the digital world, and what measures can be taken to prevent future tragedies like this.
For now, the family and friends of Eri Sato are left to grieve her sudden loss, spotlighting the ever-present danger faced by individuals who share their lives online. The case has rippled through the social media community, reminding many to be cautious about their online interactions even as they seek connection.
The tragic events of the 11th will likely influence future discussions on digital safety, encouraging both content creators and viewers alike to reflect on their online engagements carefully.