Trial Starts Over 2019 KyoAni Arson Attack

From Jiji

September 5 2023

KYOTO – A trial will start on Tuesday over the July 2019 arson attack on Kyoto Animation Co.’s No. 1 studio that killed 36 people and injured 32 others.

The focus is what Shinji Aoba, 45, accused of murder and attempted murder, will have to say about his motive for Japan’s worst arson incident since the 1989 start of the Heisei period in terms of the number of victims.

The first hearing of the lay judge trial will take place Tuesday at Kyoto District Court, followed by 22 more sessions before the verdict is released Jan. 25, 2024.

Aoba is expected to be questioned in 11 of the 23 sessions. Many bereaved families and victims are seen participating and asking him questions directly.

In consideration of bereaved families and victims, some of their names will be kept anonymous. A screen will be set up in the courtroom.