On April 6, a tragic incident occurred when a medical transport helicopter, which was en route from Nagasaki Prefecture to a hospital in Fukuoka, fell into the sea in southwestern Japan. The Japan Coast Guard reported that out of the six people onboard, three were confirmed dead, while the remaining were rescued from the water.
The survivors consisted of 66-year-old pilot Hiroshi Hamada, helicopter mechanic Kazuto Yoshitake, and 28-year-old nurse Sakura Kunitake. They were discovered by the coast guard, clinging to inflatable lifesavers, and despite suffering from hypothermia, they were thankfully conscious at the time of their rescue.
The deceased included a medical doctor, Kei Arakawa, aged 34; the patient, Mitsuki Motoishi, who was 86; and her caretaker, 68-year-old Kazuyoshi Motoishi. An Air Self-Defense Force helicopter later recovered their bodies, confirming that their hearts had stopped before professional examination. To aid in the rescue efforts, the coast guard deployed a combination of planes and ships in the area following the crash.
6 Comments
Rolihlahla
My heart goes out to the families of the deceased, but serious questions need to be answered!
G P Floyd Jr
I can't believe this happened! There should be stricter regulations for medical transports!
Rolihlahla
Let’s focus on the heroes of this situation—the survivors and rescuers who acted quickly!
Martin L King
Thankful for those who survived and the dedication of the rescue teams—true heroes in our society.
ZmeeLove
Remembering the victims but also celebrating the bravery of the survivors. Stay strong, everyone!
Coccinella
The quick response from the coast guard saved lives—major kudos to them!