Japanese police are investigating a tragic incident in Tokyo after a husband and wife died following a fire inside a private sauna room, where they were reportedly unable to escape due to a faulty door handle.
The incident occurred at Sauna Tiger in Tokyo’s Akasaka district on Monday, after smoke was detected at around 12:25pm local time. Emergency services were alerted when a smoke detector outside the sauna room was triggered.
Victims Found Near Exit
The victims have been identified as Yoko Matsuda (37), a nail technician, and her husband Masanari Matsuda (36), who owned and operated a beauty salon. Firefighters discovered the couple collapsed on the floor on top of each other, with their heads positioned close to the sauna door, suggesting they may have been attempting to escape.
Both were rushed to hospital but later died from their injuries.
According to police, Masanari sustained burns across his body and both shoulders, while Yoko suffered burns to her right shoulder. Initial assessments suggested the injuries were not life-threatening, prompting authorities to order full autopsies to determine the exact cause of death.
Faulty Door Handle and Alarm Under Scrutiny
Tokyo Metropolitan Police say early findings indicate the couple may have become trapped inside the sauna after a fire broke out. Firefighters reportedly found the door handle detached and lying on the floor, which would have made it impossible to open the door from the inside.
Investigators also discovered that the emergency alarm inside the sauna room was not connected to a power source. Signs inside the room suggest the couple attempted to activate the alarm, as the protective cover had been removed.
An employee reportedly told police that the alarm system had not been switched on for approximately two years.
Possible Cause of Fire
Evidence at the scene indicates that the fire originated inside the sauna room on the third floor. Parts of the bench and walls were found charred, along with a burnt towel. Police are investigating whether the towel may have come into contact with the hot sauna stones, potentially igniting the fire.
Inspection History Raises Questions
According to the Minato Public Health Center, Sauna Tiger opened in July 2022 and underwent an inspection in April 2023. At the time, officials reported that no major equipment deficiencies were found.
However, the revelation that the emergency alarm may have been inactive since around 2023 has raised serious questions about ongoing safety compliance and oversight.
Sauna Operator Responds
In a statement published on its website, Sauna Tiger expressed condolences to the victims’ family.
“We offer our deepest condolences and our heartfelt sympathies for the deep grief and pain that cannot be expressed in words,” the statement read.
The company confirmed it is cooperating fully with investigators and said the incident is being taken “very seriously”. The venue has been closed indefinitely while investigations continue.
Broader Safety Concerns
The tragedy has sparked public concern in Japan around fire safety standards, emergency systems, and maintenance practices in private wellness facilities. Authorities are expected to review whether regulatory breaches contributed to the deaths and whether further action will be taken once the investigation concludes.
