On February 28, 2025, tragedy struck at Fuji-Q Highland, a popular theme park located in Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture, when Iori Yoshimura, a 29-year-old maintenance worker, was killed during routine inspections of the park's roller coaster, "Eejanaika." This incident has recently drawn the focus of investigators following the announcement on March 3 by the Yamanashi Prefectural Police which confirmed the cause of death was hemorrhagic shock, after Yoshimura was found wedged between the coaster's train and the rail.
According to the police, the accident occurred when Yoshimura was performing maintenance beneath the train, which had been stopped shortly before. It is believed the train was unexpectedly moved, crushing him. Another colleague present during the inspection admitted to moving the vehicle without confirming whether anyone was underneath. On March 4, the employee stated, "I thought no one was there when I moved the train," indicating potential lapses in safety protocols.
Investigations revealed serious lapses concerning safety regulations set by Fuji-Q Highland. According to the company's internal inspection manual, it is mandatory to switch off the power of operational devices before performing any maintenance work. If power needs to be reinstated, workers are to establish wireless communication and sound alarms to beware everyone nearby, preventing such tragic occurrences. The police have flagged these protocols, studying if negligence on the job contributed to Yoshimura’s death and whether there were issues with the company’s safety protocols during inspections.
Following this incident, the roller coaster "Eejanaika" has been suspended indefinitely, with company representatives stating they are fully cooperating with the investigation. Details released during this process have shown the company was unaware of the operational status of the main power source, which should have been disabled during maintenance inspections. Reports also indicated uncertainty about whether the emergency brakes attached to the tracks were functioning properly at the time of the accident, heightening concerns about the facility's safety measures.
Yoshimura exhibited traits of diligence during his time at Fuji-Q Highland, performing maintenance duties with dedication. His untimely death raises questions not just about the immediate circumstances of the accident but also about broader safety practices within the amusement park industry, as mishaps like these cast long shadows over amusement operators. At present, the local police department continues to look closely at the particulars of the incident, examining both the mechanical aspects of the accident and adherence to safety protocols.
Local authorities have been open about their fallout from this tragedy and have called for stricter oversight on amusement park operations. The company is reviewing their commitment to employee safety through comprehensive training and adherence to internationally accepted safety guidelines as they navigate the aftermath of this incident.
Community members have expressed their condolences, mourning Yoshimura's passing and calling for significant changes to safety protocols not only at Fuji-Q Highland but across all amusement parks nationwide. They believe this accident could be a catalyst for enhanced safety measures and regulatory scrutiny within the industry.
While inquiries continue, this incident serves as painful reminders for amusement parks and their workers alike, underscoring the necessity for vigilance and systematic enforcement of safety measures to protect employees and ride attendees alike. Public sentiment increasingly favors actions to mandate review and reform of inspection protocols as the investigation proceeds.
It remains to be seen how this incident will influence future policy changes, yet residents and amusement park employees hope for swift revision to existing safety measures to prevent future tragedies. With the investigations actively underway, families, co-workers, and local residents alike seek accountability and change, praying this unfortunate event can lead to significant improvements across amusement parks.
Yoshimura will be remembered for his dedication and the void left by his passing is deeply felt by colleagues and the community. The hope is for this tragic loss to prompt necessary steps forward to secure both worker safety and public enjoyment of amusement parks across the nation.