HELL ON EARTH

33 Dead, Dozens Injured in Suspected Arson at Japan Animation Studio

A man allegedly burst into the building and spread an unidentified liquid before setting off the blaze at around 10:30 a.m.

At least 33 people are presumed dead and more than 36 injured in a suspected arson attack at a famous production studio in Kyoto, Japan, authorities say. The suspect was arrested while receiving treatment for his injuries at a hospital, and has reportedly admitted to the crime. The 41-year-old suspect reportedly burst into the building and sprayed petrol before setting off the blaze around 10:30 a.m. Thursday at a three-story studio of Kyoto Animation Co., a company known for producing popular Japanese TV animation series. The Japan Times reports that about 10 people were found lying unconscious on the second floor and presumed dead. Kyoto Fire Department official Satoshi Fujiwara told the AP that one person was confirmed dead due to severe burns, and 10 of those injured were in serious condition. Fire department officials say more than 70 people were in the building at the time of the fire, but most of them ran outside. The suspect has been detained and taken to the hospital with injuries. One woman says she heard the suspect shout, “You ripped me off.” Kyoto Animation Director Hideaki Hatta said his company had recently received death threats.