Self-immolation on Japanese bullet train, second passenger dies

(Baonghean.vn) - Japanese media reported that two passengers on Japan's Shinkansen bullet train died after one of them poured oil on himself and set himself on fire today, June 30.

Passengers are seen inside a Shinkansen bullet train after it made an emergency stop in Odawara, south of Tokyo.

The train carrying about 1,000 passengers was forced to make an emergency stop en route from Tokyo to the western city of Osaka after smoke began filling one carriage.

A fire official confirmed the man was dead. Kyodo news agency quoted a witness as identifying him as the man who poured kerosene over himself and set himself on fire. There was no immediate indication of a motive for the man's actions.

NHK said a female passenger was also killed, while at least one other person was in critical condition and several others were injured. Most passengers had moved to other carriages when the smoke began to appear.

An official at JR Tokai (Central Japan Railway Company) said at least one person was found at the entrance of a train car that was engulfed in gasoline fumes. Footage on TBS television showed a car filled with smoke and passengers evacuating with masks covering their faces. JR Tokai officials said the train stopped after the emergency button was pressed and the passenger was later discovered.

Japan's Shinkansen bullet trains are famous for their speed and safety. More than 400,000 people travel on the Shinkansen every day.

Phuong Thao

(According to Reuters)