Tragedy struck Japan on Friday, December 26, 2025. Two separate major incidents unfolded. A violent attack occurred at a factory. A massive highway crash also happened. These events shocked the nation. This news highlights safety concerns. It impacts the global view. Such events are rare. Japan is known for its safety. This day brought stark reminders. The world watched the developing news.
Shizuoka Factory Attack: Chaos Erupts
A man attacked workers at a factory. This happened in Mishima city. It is located in Shizuoka Prefecture. The attack began around 4:30 p.m. local time. Fifteen people were injured. The perpetrator used a knife. He also sprayed a liquid. This liquid was likely bleach. The victims suffered stab wounds. Others were affected by the spray. Eight people were stabbed. Seven others were injured by the liquid. Five of the stabbed victims were in serious condition. All 15 injured remained conscious. They were all sent to the hospital. This was a significant incident. It caused widespread concern. The news spread quickly today.
Perpetrator Identified and Arrested
Police quickly identified the attacker. He is Masaki Oyama, aged 38. He reportedly worked at the factory previously. This connection is under investigation. Oyama was wearing a gas mask. He was also armed with a survival knife. This suggests premeditation. He was arrested for attempted murder. Investigators are exploring his motive. The factory is part of Yokohama Rubber Co. It produces tires. The company has many employees. This attack disrupted operations. It created fear among staff. This event is a major news item. It is being watched globally.
A Day of Dual Disasters
On the same day, another tragedy occurred. This happened far from Shizuoka. A massive pileup closed a highway. It occurred on the Kan-Etsu Expressway. This was in Gunma Prefecture. The crash involved many vehicles. Estimates range from 50 to 67 cars. The pileup started around 7:30 p.m. Two trucks collided first. This triggered a chain reaction. The road was covered in snow. Conditions were very slippery. Heavy snow warnings were active. Many vehicles could not stop. They crashed into each other. The accident scene was extensive. It stretched over 300 meters. This caused major traffic disruptions. It marked a dark start to the holiday season.
Devastating Highway Toll
This severe crash resulted in loss of life. Two people died in the accident. One victim was identified. She was Miyuki Wakita, aged 77. She was a passenger in a car. The second victim was found in a truck. Twenty-six people were injured. Five of them sustained serious injuries. The crash caused several vehicles to catch fire. Over ten cars burned intensely. Firefighters worked for hours. They eventually extinguished the blaze. The expressway remained closed. This prevented travel for many. It was a tragic event for the world to witness.
Broader Context and Impact
Japan is known for its low crime rates. Violent incidents are relatively rare. Strict gun laws contribute to this safety. However, knife attacks do occur. This factory attack is a significant event. It raises questions about workplace safety. It also prompts reflection on mental health. The highway crash highlights weather risks. Driving in heavy snow is dangerous. Even safe roads can become hazardous. These events dominated world news today. They cast a shadow over the nation. Investigations into both incidents continue. Authorities seek to understand the causes. They aim to prevent future tragedies. The world continues to follow the aftermath.