In a tragic incident, a former death row inmate has died following a gun rampage in a snack bar in Maebashi, Japan. The offender, whose identity has not yet been disclosed, is said to have indiscriminately fired shots around the small and intimate venue, leading to his subsequent death. The timeline of events, including how and why he obtained the firearm, as well as the possible victims, are currently under investigation.

Japan has strict gun control laws with very low rates of gun violence. This incident, especially it involving a death row inmate, is shocking and attracts significant attention. Public safety is heavily valued in Japan, and such incidents challenge their societal peace and order. The society largely supports the enforcement of capital punishment for capital crimes reflecting the emphasis on crime deterrence.

In contrast, the U.S. and many countries in the EU have more lenient gun control laws leading to a higher incidence of gun violence. In the U.S., capital punishment is a polarizing issue, and some states have abolished it altogether. Gun violence, especially public shootings, in these countries may be more common, but are no less shocking and tragic.