Police arrested a 38-year-old suspect after a dual attack at a Yokohama Rubber Co. tire factory in Mishima, central Japan, that left 15 people injured. Eight people were stabbed and seven were hit by a liquid believed to be bleach; five of the stabbing victims were reported in serious condition, though all were conscious during transport. The suspect, believed to be a former employee, was found with a survival knife and a gas mask. Authorities say the investigation is ongoing and no motive has been announced.
15 Injured in Knife and Bleach Attack at Yokohama Rubber Factory in Japan; Suspect Arrested
Police arrested a 38-year-old man after a dual attack at a Yokohama Rubber Co. tire factory in Mishima, Shizuoka Prefecture, on Friday that left 15 people injured, officials said.
What Happened
According to the Fujisan Nanto Fire Department, the incident began when a man stabbed eight people with a knife inside the factory. Shortly afterward, seven others were reportedly struck by a liquid believed to be bleach that the attacker threw, bringing the total number of injured to 15.
Victims And Arrest
The fire department told The Associated Press that five of the stabbing victims were in serious condition, and media reports said all victims were conscious while being transported to hospitals. Shizuoka Prefectural Police said the 38-year-old suspect was arrested at the scene on suspicion of attempted murder. Authorities have not released a motive.
Suspect Details
Kyodo News cited investigative sources saying the suspect is believed to be a former employee of the factory. The Asahi newspaper reported investigators found the man carrying a survival knife and wearing what appeared to be a gas mask.
Context
Japan enforces strict gun-control laws and generally has low rates of violent crime, but several high-profile knife attacks have occurred in recent years. Police said the investigation is ongoing as officials work to determine the motive and piece together the sequence of events.
Officials Urge Caution: Local authorities continue to treat the scene as an active investigation and are providing medical support to the injured.
