Abe – Japan’s longest-serving Prime Minister – was giving a speech in the city of Nara when he was shot in the back.
Former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has passed away after being shot during a speech in the city of Nara.
The shooter is said to be in custody:
WATCH: Bystanders rush to help former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe after he is shotpic.twitter.com/vgk7fn323p
— BNO News (@BNONews) July 8, 2022
Abe – the longest serving PM in Japan’s history – was giving a stump speech ahead of impending upper house elections.
According to local reports and confirmed by video, a man approached Abe from behind and shot him with a shotgun.
After being transferred to hospital, Abe was pronounced dead.
JUST IN: Japan PM Kishida says lost for words over ex-PM Abe's deathhttps://t.co/Hf45qVLFRQ pic.twitter.com/HVchI1Hdhr
— Kyodo News | Japan (@kyodo_english) July 8, 2022
Suspect arrested
Authorities say Tetsuya Yamagami – a resident of Nara in his 40’s – was arrested at the scene.
You can watch live Japanese News coverage below:
Around the world, leaders and citizens of many countries expressed their shock and sadness at the assassination of Abe.
Many praised Abe’s strong leadership and his personal kindness in dealing with others.
Abe’s death is a profound tragedy, and the world has lost a great statesman.
Spencer Fernando
Photo – YouTube
