August M
A private sauna in Tokyo has become the focus of a police investigation after a fatal incident that has raised questions about safety systems and oversight. What was meant to be a routine visit ended in circumstances authorities are now trying to fully reconstruct.
Emergency services were called too late to save the couple trapped inside.
According to Mirror reporting, a husband and wife were found dead inside a sauna room after becoming trapped during a fire. Tokyo police have launched a probe into the incident, which occurred on Monday at a facility called SaunaTiger.
Investigators said the couple were unable to call for help while stuck inside the sauna.
Trapped inside
Employees at SaunaTiger told police that the emergency alarm system had been switched off “for about two years” before the incident. Firefighters arriving at the scene found the sauna room’s doorknob lying on the floor.
Local media reported that the couple were discovered collapsed on the floor on top of each other, with their heads near the door they were unable to open.
The victims were identified as Masaya Matsuda, a 36-year-old beauty salon owner, and his wife Yoko, 37, who worked as a nail technician.
Fire cause
An initial investigation found that the walls of the sauna room were charred. A burnt towel was also discovered, leading investigators to believe the fire may have started when the towel came into contact with hot sauna stones.
Authorities believe the towel caught fire first, before the flames spread to a wooden bench and then the wall of the sauna room.
Police said the couple were unable to escape once the fire broke out.
Injuries found
Masaya was found to have suffered burns on both shoulders and across his body. Yoko sustained burns on her right shoulder, according to investigators.
The couple were rushed to hospital but were pronounced dead shortly afterwards. An autopsy carried out on Thursday was inconclusive as to the exact cause of death.
Police believe the pair may have died either from burns or from hyperthermia.
Industry concerns
Following the incident, SaunaTiger posted a statement on its website: “We offer our deepest condolences… and our heartfelt sympathies for the deep grief and pain that cannot be expressed in words.”
The business said it would remain closed for the time being and that customers with existing bookings would receive full refunds.
Japan has seen a sharp rise in sauna use since the Covid pandemic. However, a series of serious incidents has prompted lawmakers to question whether the rapidly growing sector is sufficiently regulated, notes Mirror.
Sources: Mirror, local Japanese media
