Sagamihara City held a memorial ceremony on July 25 to honor the victims of the Tsukui Yamayuri-en incident one day before its 10-year anniversary [1].
The gathering serves as a critical reminder of one of Japan's most targeted attacks against people with disabilities, ensuring the tragedy remains in public consciousness as the community seeks long-term healing.
City officials, families of the victims, and Governor Yuji Kuroiwa attended the event at a community hall in Sagamihara City, Kanagawa Prefecture [1]. The ceremony commemorated the lives lost during the 2016 attack, which resulted in 19 deaths [1], [2], and 26 injuries [1]. While some reports suggest a higher death toll of 45 [3], official records from the primary event coverage maintain the figure of 19.
Principal Kiyomitsu Nagai spoke during the ceremony about the enduring nature of the tragedy. "This deep sadness will never be healed, even now that ten long years have passed," Nagai said. He expressed gratitude for having known the victims and asked that they rest in peace in heaven.
Governor Yuji Kuroiwa also delivered remarks during the service, focusing on the importance of understanding the true feelings of people with disabilities [6]. The event saw varying reported attendance, with figures ranging from 85 [6] to 187 people [1].
The ceremony focused on solidarity and the prevention of future violence. Attendees spent the day reflecting on the memories of those killed and the lasting impact on the survivors and their families. The 10-year mark represents a significant milestone in the city's efforts to support the bereaved and improve the safety of care facilities across the region.
“"This deep sadness will never be healed, even now that ten long years have passed,"”
The 10-year anniversary of the Tsukui Yamayuri-en incident highlights the ongoing struggle to integrate and protect marginalized populations in Japan. By centering the memorial on the 'true feelings' of those with disabilities, the event moves beyond simple remembrance toward a systemic critique of how society values individuals with intellectual and physical impairments.
