Mishima, Japan – At least 15 people were injured in a violent attack at the Yokohama Rubber Co tire factory in Mishima, southwest of Tokyo, on Friday. Japanese authorities reported that eight victims were stabbed while seven others suffered injuries after being sprayed with a chemical substance resembling bleach.

The Fujisan Nanto Fire Department confirmed the numbers and said five of the stabbing victims are in serious but stable condition.

Suspect in Custody

Japanese media identified the suspect as a 38-year-old man, who is now in police custody and faces charges of attempted murder, according to Shizuoka prefectural police cited by the Asahi Shimbun. Investigators report that the suspect acted alone, carrying a survival knife and wearing what appeared to be a gas mask.

Police have not yet revealed a potential motive behind the attack. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are reviewing security footage and witness statements to determine how the incident unfolded.

Eyewitness Reactions

An employee at a nearby car dealership described the attack as shocking. “I’m scared, but I’m also shocked that it could have happened in a place like this,” she told Asahi Shimbun. The area is generally considered quiet and safe, highlighting the rarity of such violent incidents in Japan.

Context: Violent Crime in Japan

Japan has one of the lowest murder rates in the world and strict gun control laws, making violent attacks rare. However, the country has witnessed occasional stabbings and shootings:

• Former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was assassinated in 2022.
• In June 2025, a man known as the “Twitter Killer” was executed for killing and dismembering nine people he met online—the country’s first use of capital punishment in nearly three years.
• In October 2025, a man was sentenced to death for a shooting and stabbing rampage that killed four people, including two police officers, in 2023.

These incidents underscore that, while uncommon, high-profile violent crimes still occur in Japan, often shocking the public and prompting debates about workplace security and public safety measures.

Police Response

Local authorities have cordoned off the factory and are conducting a thorough investigation. Emergency services were quick to respond, ensuring victims received immediate medical attention. The Shizuoka Prefectural Police continue to search for evidence that could clarify the suspect’s motives and prevent potential future attacks.