Deadly ‘arson attack’ at anime studio

A suspected arson attack at Kyoto Animation in Japan has killed at least 23 people and injured dozens, local emergency officials have said.

Local media quoted police as saying a 41-year-old man broke into the studio on Thursday morning and sprayed petrol before igniting it, according to BBC News.

Around 70 people were in the building when the fire started, fire officials say, and some people still remain unaccounted for, broadcaster NHK reported. A suspect has been detained and was taken to hospital with injuries.

Kyoto Animation has produced numerous TV anime series such as K-On!, The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya and Sound! Euphonium.

Tributes have already been paid by members of the international animation community, which is reeling from the news.

We are shocked and saddened by the news coming from Japan this morning. Our thoughts and prayers go to everyone working within Kyoto Animation at this difficult time. https://t.co/iHlnrfNYJ7

— Cartoon Saloon (@CartoonSaloon) July 18, 2019