Asahiyama Zoo Staff Suspected of Killing Wife and Burning Body

(Central News Agency, Tokyo, 27th) A horrific case has emerged in Asahikawa, Hokkaido, where a male staff member in his 30s working at Asahiyama Zoo is suspected of killing his wife and burning her remains in an incinerator. Police discovered that prior to her disappearance, the man had threatened her, saying he would 'burn everything until nothing is left.' The city government is now evaluating whether to delay the summer opening scheduled for April 29. Economic chief Go Asari stated that the priority is cooperating with the police and supporting staff mental health while assessing the management system. Although the incinerator is in a restricted area, opening may be difficult if the investigation expands to public areas. Animal care remains normal. Asahiyama Zoo, established in 1967, is famous for its 'behavioral exhibitions' and attracted 1.33 million visitors in 2025. 1150427