On March 11, 2023, Airi Sato, a 22-year-old livestreamer, was fatally stabbed in Tokyo by Kenichi Takano, who was owed 2.5 million yen. Takano, frustrated after court rulings favoring him, acted violently during her livestream. He is now facing murder charges after previously being charged with attempted murder. The case highlights the dangers of unresolved financial disputes.
On March 11, a tragic incident occurred in Tokyo’s Shinjuku Ward when 22-year-old livestreamer Airi Sato was fatally stabbed by Kenichi Takano, a 42-year-old man from Tochigi Prefecture. Police reported that Takano was frustrated with Sato’s refusal to repay a court-ordered debt of approximately 2.5 million yen (around $17,000). Despite a lawsuit ruling in his favor, she allegedly had only repaid 30,000 yen before ceasing all communication, which led to the horrific act during her livestreaming session.
Sato was attacked at approximately 9:55 a.m., sustaining over 30 stab wounds, and was later pronounced dead at a hospital. The autopsy identified a stab wound to her neck as the cause of death. Takano was found carrying survival knives and was initially charged with attempted murder; however, authorities plan to upgrade this charge to murder.
Court documents reveal that Takano lent Sato money in 13 installments starting in September 2022. After being ordered to repay the debt by the court, Sato failed to appear in court and cut off contact with Takano following partial repayment. As a result, Takano expressed his frustrations to the police regarding Sato’s successful livestreaming career, which he felt was unfair considering her debt to him. He stated, “I saw a notice about her livestreaming schedule and came to Tokyo on the morning of that day. Then, I identified her location by watching the live video she was streaming.” Police believe he is mentally competent for criminal proceedings.
The incident underscores the tragic consequences of unresolved financial disputes, leading to extreme actions stemming from frustration and anger. Both legal proceedings and communication breakdowns contributed to a violent outcome, revealing deeper issues surrounding debt and personal responsibility. As investigations continue, the community is left to grapple with the aftermath of such a senseless act of violence.
Original Source: www.asahi.com
