Osaka police conclude investigation into fatal shooting of knife-wielding man

Police in Kawachinagano, Osaka Prefecture, have concluded investigations into an August 4 incident where a man in his 60s was shot and killed by officers. The man had approached police while armed with a knife despite repeated warnings.

Authorities revealed that stimulants were detected in the man's body and he is suspected of having broken into a residential building to steal two kitchen knives prior to the confrontation. He has been referred to prosecutors with charges including violation of the Stimulants Control Act, theft, obstruction of official duties, and violation of the Swords and Firearms Control Law, though the charges are being filed with the suspect deceased.

The Osaka Prefectural Police stated that the use of firearms was “lawful and appropriate official execution,” asserting that the shots were fired as a necessary measure for self-defense to protect officers during the arrest attempt. The man died from blood loss caused by a gunshot wound to the chest.