High School Student Dies in Accident at Niigata Festival
An 18-year-old male high school student died after being trapped between a festival lantern and a pillar during a traditional event in Agano, Niigata Prefecture, on the evening of August 24. (News On Japan)
On August 24, an 18-year-old high school student named Keito Shinbo tragically died in Niigata, Japan. The young man was participating in the Suibara Festival's Toro Live event, where teams push large lantern structures against each other. Shinbo was part of a group carrying a lantern when he became trapped between the lantern and a pillar supporting the nearby shopping arcade.
Witnesses noted that an automated external defibrillator was brought to the scene and that blood was visible around Shinbo's head, neck, and upper body. The accident occurred during a intense pushing contest, and despite efforts from security personnel to halt the event, the pushing continued for an additional minute. Two other males in their 30s also sustained injuries.
In the aftermath, questions arose about safety measures at festivals involving large crowds and heavy structures. The Agano City Tourism Association promotes the Toro Live as a vigorous local tradition, but the incident has reignited discussions about the need for stronger safety protocols.
Written by urgent.news from News On Japan's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
