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20 Rescued After Overnight Elevator Failure at Tokyo Skytree

Investigators are examining the system to determine why the car halted during descent.

Overview

  • The elevator stopped late in the evening while descending from the 350-meter observation deck and came to rest about 30 meters above ground.
  • Twenty occupants, including two children, were trapped for more than five hours before being freed around 2:00 a.m. local time.
  • Rescuers lowered a neighboring car to the same level, opened emergency exits, and installed a metal bridge with handrails to evacuate everyone safely.
  • Police and technicians maintained phone contact with those inside throughout the operation, and no injuries were reported.
  • The 634-meter landmark, opened in 2012 and among the world's tallest structures, has not yet provided a cause as checks continue.