Former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was shot and killed by a lone shooter on Friday while delivering a speech for political campaign.
Abe was reportedly unconscious, unresponsive, and showing no vital signs as he was being transported to the hospital following the attack.
“Abe was admitted to the Nara Medical University Hospital, and government sources cited in media reports said the former leader was in critical condition,” The Washington Post reported. “Local media, citing police sources, described Abe’s status as a ‘cardiopulmonary arrest,’ a term often used in Japan before death is officially confirmed.”
He was later pronounced dead by doctors at the hospital.
The shooter told local police that he was “frustrated” with him and that he hoped to kill him.
“This is a despicable and barbaric act that occurred in the midst of an election which is the foundation of democracy and absolutely cannot be tolerated,” Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said. “We condemn it in the harshest possible terms. We will take all possible measures to prepare for every possible situation.”
The White House released a statement condemning the attack, adding, “We are closely monitoring the reports and keeping our thoughts with his family and the people of Japan.”
The statement from the White House after former President Donald Trump and former Vice President Mike Pence issued statements about the matter.
“Absolutely devastating news that former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan, a truly great man and leader, has been shot, and is in very serious condition,” Trump said. “He was a true friend of mine and, much more importantly, America. This is a tremendous blow to the wonderful people of Japan, who loved and admired him so much. We are all praying for Shinzo and his beautiful family!”
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