Overview
- On June 19 a fire broke out at Takinogawa Third Elementary School in Kita Ward and firefighters extinguished the blaze in about an hour.
- About 300–360 students and staff were evacuated to nearby areas after smoke was reported at 10:58 a.m.
- Ten people, including eight pupils and two teachers, were taken to hospital mainly for smoke inhalation.
- Eyewitness and broadcast footage showed children and teachers on exterior ledges while dozens of fire engines and crews — reports said as many as 74 vehicles — responded to the scene.
- The Metropolitan Police and local education officials have opened an investigation, the school has cancelled classes and after-school programs, and authorities will review emergency drills, storage and evacuation procedures.