Key Facts
• On July 28, 2025, a man attacked six people in Mito, Japan.
• The suspect, Hirokazu Shiobara, 48, was arrested for attempted murder.
• Incident occurred near JR Mito Station, 650 meters northwest.
• Victims included men and women aged 20s to 70s; two sustained serious injuries.
• All victims are conscious and in stable condition.
• The suspect used four high-lethality weapons, including a machete and survival knife.
• Shiobara wore a black mask and carried weapons in a holster.
• The attack was random, with no prior connection to the victims.
• Local residents helped subdue the suspect before police arrived.
• The area is set to host the Mito Komon Festival on August 2–3.
• Shiobara, a former elite school student, was described as excelling in athletics.
• Police are investigating the motive behind the attack.
Summary
On July 28, 2025, Hirokazu Shiobara, 48, attacked six people with a machete and survival knife in Mito’s business district. The victims, aged 20s to 70s, suffered injuries, with two in serious condition but stable. The suspect, wearing a black mask, was subdued by bystanders and arrested for attempted murder. The attack occurred near JR Mito Station, close to the upcoming Mito Komon Festival. Shiobara, a former elite school student, acted randomly without prior connections to the victims. Police are investigating his motives.
