Two Fatalities Confirmed in Tokyo Hit-and-Run Involving Stolen Vehicle

TOKYO — Authorities confirmed that two people lost their lives following a hit-and-run accident involving a stolen car in Tokyo's Adachi Ward on Monday afternoon.

The first victim, Gladys Grace Rotaquio Testado, a 28-year-old company employee from the Philippines, was struck while crossing the street around 12:30 p.m. and later succumbed to her injuries at a hospital, the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department reported on Tuesday.

The vehicle then continued onto the sidewalk, colliding with four additional pedestrians and triggering a chain reaction involving a truck. Apart from Testado, 81-year-old Kenji Sugimoto also died as a result of the crash, while nine others ranging in age from their teens to seventies sustained various injuries.

Investigators referenced witness testimonies and video recordings indicating that the car did not reduce speed before hitting Testado. Furthermore, the scene revealed no evident brake markings.

Police have apprehended a 37-year-old male suspect on charges related to vehicle theft. They are currently assessing his mental state to determine criminal responsibility and are considering filing additional charges, including hit-and-run and reckless driving resulting in fatalities and injuries.

This incident has prompted authorities to intensify efforts to prevent similar tragedies and enforce stricter traffic regulations.