On April 16, 2025, a shocking incident unfolded on the Metropolitan Expressway in Tokyo when a luxury Ferrari caught fire just an hour after its delivery. The controversial YouTuber Pokekamen, who was riding in the car with an acquaintance, shared images of the burning vehicle, drawing attention and concern from his followers.
The fire started around 2:29 PM at the Hamazaki Bridge Junction on the Metropolitan Expressway Haneda Line. According to the Metropolitan Expressway authorities, the flames were extinguished approximately 25 minutes later, but not before the rear of the car was severely damaged. Fortunately, both Pokekamen and the driver, identified as a company president, escaped without injury.
Pokekamen took to social media to express his disbelief and concern. "The president bought the Ferrari, and just an hour after I got a ride, it caught fire," he posted, alongside photos showing the car engulfed in flames and billowing black smoke. He clarified that the fire was due to a mechanical failure, not the result of reckless driving. "It’s not due to driving, but a car malfunction," he stated, emphasizing the unfortunate timing of the incident occurring on the very day the car was delivered.
In a follow-up post, he reassured fans that both he and the president were safe, but lamented the unfortunate situation, saying, "The president is really unfortunate because it burned on the day of delivery. Please help comfort him by spreading the news about this incident." The post resonated with followers, who expressed their relief that no one was hurt, with comments like, "I’m glad there were no serious injuries" and "It’s scary, but I’m really glad you both are safe."
The dramatic scene was captured by onlookers and quickly spread across news outlets, including Fuji TV, which reported on the incident shortly after it occurred. The footage showed the Ferrari engulfed in flames, prompting a flurry of reactions on social media. Pokekamen himself remarked on his sub-account, "The president is in the news..." highlighting the unusual nature of the event.
As the investigation into the cause of the fire continues, the Metropolitan Police Department is looking into the possibility that the fire originated from the engine area. Eyewitnesses reported seeing flames erupting from the vehicle before the driver managed to escape and alert authorities. The fire was significant enough to prompt traffic disruptions on the expressway, with access blocked from the Hamazaki Bridge Junction to the merging section heading toward the outer loop of the Metropolitan Expressway. This closure lasted until approximately 4:20 PM, affecting many drivers in the area.
Interestingly, the owner of the Ferrari had saved for a decade to purchase the vehicle, which cost around 43 million yen (approximately $400,000). The excitement of finally acquiring his dream car quickly turned into a nightmare, as he was left to grapple with the loss just an hour after taking delivery. The incident has sparked discussions among car enthusiasts and the general public about the reliability of high-end vehicles and the potential risks associated with luxury cars.
In related news, the incident has occurred amidst a rising trend of Japanese tourists traveling to Korea to buy rice, with reports indicating that tourists are increasingly purchasing rice at lower prices compared to those in Japan. This trend has raised awareness about the cost of living and consumer behavior in Japan, reflecting broader economic dynamics.
As the story continues to develop, many are left wondering about the implications of this incident for luxury car owners and the automotive industry at large. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of vehicle ownership, especially with high-performance cars that often come with their own set of challenges.
For Pokekamen, the incident has not only drawn attention to the risks associated with luxury cars but also highlighted the importance of safety and awareness on the roads. As he continues to engage with his audience, the hope is that both he and the president can find some solace amid the unfortunate circumstances surrounding this fiery episode.
In the end, while the Ferrari may be a total loss, the most important takeaway is that both Pokekamen and the driver emerged unscathed. Their story serves as a reminder that even in moments of despair, safety remains paramount.
