Japanese police officers inspect the scene where over 30 people died in a fire at the Kyoto Animation studio building in Kyoto on July 19, 2019. — AFP: Details emerged Friday of the horrifying blaze that ripped through a Japanese anime firm, killing dozens including people who tried in vain to reach the roof, but the motive for the suspected arson remained unclear.
That was borne out by the grim toll: 33 dead, with dozens more injured, including several in critical condition.It sparked an outpouring of grief in Japan and beyond, as fans of the country’s famed anime industry expressed horror at the enormous loss.“These young people were the age of my grandchildren,“ 78-year-old Sachiko Konishi told“If my grandchildren died under circumstances like this, I wouldn’t want to go on living.”“I’m praying to help the souls of those killed find release,“ she said.
Only sketchy details have emerged about the man, who reportedly shouted “drop dead” before starting the fire. The company founded by a husband and wife couple is known for its skilful animations of manga works, and has a reputation as a generous employer in an industry rife with exploitation of artists.Local police said 12 men and 20 women were among the dead, with one victim not yet identified.