Police in Kitakyushu have arrested Masanori Hirabaru, a 43-year-old unemployed man, on charges of attempted murder following a violent attack on two teenagers at a McDonald’s in Kokura Minami Ward. The incident occurred on December 14 and resulted in the death of 15-year-old Saaya Nakashima, while her male companion sustained severe injuries.
According to police reports, the two students, returning from evening classes, had stopped at the restaurant in Tokuriki around 8:30 p.m. While placing an order at the counter, they were suddenly attacked by a man armed with a knife. Surveillance footage revealed that the assailant entered the establishment and carried out the attack within 30 seconds before fleeing in a vehicle. The male victim, who survived with serious injuries, stated he had no prior acquaintance with the attacker. Investigators identified Hirabaru as a suspect using security camera footage and arrested him on December 19.Hirabaru confessed to the charges, saying, “Yes, I did it.” The police also revealed that Hirabaru drove to and from the scene. Although the motive remains unclear, authorities continue to investigate the incident’s details. The attack has left the local community shaken. Residents near JR Kokura Station shared mixed feelings of relief and lingering anxiety. A 30-something mother with a young child said, “I feel somewhat reassured by the arrest, but the incident made me constantly watch over my child, not knowing what could happen next.” Source: NHK
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