Japan arrests suspect after car‑ramming knife attack in Sagamihara; Akita man indicted for separate store robbery

On July 20, police responded to a vehicle crash at a convenience store in Sagamihara City, Kanagawa. A 45‑year‑old man identified as Shibuya Kyohei drove a car into the store while holding a 15 cm knife in his left hand and a golf club in his right. After a warning shot was fired, he was subdued and arrested on suspicion of violating Japan’s sword and firearm laws. One teenage customer suffered minor injuries.

In a separate incident, prosecutors in Akita City announced the indictment of a 55‑year‑old unemployed man for robbery. He had threatened a store clerk with a knife and stolen food items from the shop. The case is set to be heard by the Akita District Court.