At least 15 injured in knife and chemical attack at Shizuoka factory in Japan

At least 15 people were injured in a violent knife and chemical‑spray attack at a tyre factory in central Japan on Friday, December 26, 2025. The incident took place at the Yokohama Rubber Company factory in Mishima, Shizuoka Prefecture, about 120 kilometres southwest of Tokyo, when a man entered the facility in the late afternoon and began stabbing workers before spraying them with an unknown liquid believed to be bleach.

Emergency services received reports of the attack around 4:30 pm local time. Firefighters and paramedics rushed to the scene and found multiple workers injured. All of those hurt were conscious when first responders arrived, and 15 people were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. Five of the stabbing victims were reported to be in serious condition, while the severity of injuries from the chemical spray is still being assessed.

Shizuoka Prefectural Police arrested a 38‑year‑old man , identified by local media as a Mishima resident, at the factory on suspicion of attempted murder. Investigators say the suspect was carrying a survival knife and wearing what appeared to be a gas mask during the assault. Factory workers reportedly subdued him before officers arrived. Authorities also indicated that he may have had a connection to the factory, though the exact relationship to the company or the victims has not been clarified.

The exact nature of the liquid sprayed at the victims has not been confirmed, and investigators continue to analyse the substance. Police have not disclosed a clear motive for the attack and say the investigation is ongoing. The wider area around the factory was cordoned off as officers interviewed witnesses and collected evidence.

Japan is known for its low violent crime rates and strict gun control laws, but incidents involving knives and other weapons have occurred in recent years, drawing public concern. Authorities said they are reviewing security measures at the factory and urged residents and companies nationwide to stay vigilant.