Driver Flees 10-Car Crash, Later Arrested After Breaking Into Factory in Hokkaido

Sep 27, 2025 | News On Japan

HOKKAIDO, Sep 27, 2025 (News On Japan) - A 10-vehicle collision on Route 36 in Eniwa, Hokkaido, on Thursday morning left two women with minor injuries and set off a dramatic police pursuit, as the driver suspected of causing the crash abandoned his car and fled on foot before being arrested several kilometers away.

Police identified the suspect as Tomohiro Imakita, a 33-year-old part-time worker from Eniwa City, who allegedly caused the chain collision by recklessly driving and crashing into multiple cars near the roadside rest area Hana Road Eniwa. After abandoning his car, Imakita fled on foot, escaping about three kilometers from the crash site before entering a factory premises.

Security camera footage later captured Imakita running through the factory grounds with several officers in pursuit. About 30 seconds after being cornered, he was subdued and arrested on the spot for trespassing. The pursuit and arrest took place roughly two and a half hours after the collision, with footage showing officers finally tackling the suspect from behind.

Police suspect he was responsible for initiating the accident by driving erratically, and investigators are examining the link between the collision and his subsequent actions. Imakita has so far remained silent during questioning.

Source: FNN

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