Mourners have gathered at the site of Kyoto Animation in western Japan to remember victims of an arson attack on the studio six years ago. The fire left 36 people dead and 32 others injured.
About 150 people took part in a memorial service that began just after 10:30 a.m. on Friday, the exact time the attack took place on July 18, 2019. The centerpiece was an altar decorated with 36 sunflowers.
Attendees included bereaved family members and studio staffers and officials, including Kyoto Animation President Hatta Hideaki.
A lawyer for the studio said the event began with a silent prayer, followed by a chance for employees to speak about the sadness they still feel, six years after losing their colleagues.
According to the lawyer, one employee said they wanted to spend more time together and continue creating, but they have somehow just worked day by day with the will to move forward.
Hatta reportedly said although six years seems to be a long time, it has passed quickly. He said he remembers the importance of the people who were lost and pledged that all employees will keep working as one with the hopes of the victims in mind.
The attacker, Aoba Shinji, now 47, was sentenced to death after being convicted of arson, murder and other crimes. In January, he personally withdrew his appeal against the decision, finalizing the sentence.
Meanwhile, his lawyer has filed a request at the Osaka High Court claiming that Aoba’s withdrawal was invalid.
AloJapan.com