Employee died in Japan mall blast after employer ordered return for cash

A young convenience store employee died in a devastating explosion at Aeon Mall Kumamoto, Japan, after she was asked by her employer to return to the store to secure cash following an earthquake evacuation. The 22-year-old, Kurumi Ootake, and a colleague re-entered the damaged mall on July 28, only for a massive explosion to occur minutes later, killing seven people, including Ootake.

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I admit that I gave the instruction. I deeply regret my responsibility.

Habita, the operator of the convenience store, admitted to instructing employees to retrieve cash from safes, a directive also issued to three other branches in Kumamoto Prefecture. The company's sales manager stated he instructed store managers to secure cash if possible, acknowledging responsibility. However, conflicting accounts have emerged regarding the circumstances of Ootake's re-entry into the mall. Habita claims mall staff at the entrance allowed the employees in, while Aeon Mall representatives deny giving permission for re-entry, stating a manual prohibited returning to the building after evacuation.

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We have never conveyed to employees that re-entry into the building was possible.

Ootake, who supported her family after her father's death, was described as bright, diligent, and responsible. Her family is seeking a thorough investigation into the events that led to her death, expressing deep sorrow and frustration that she returned to the building after surviving the initial earthquake. The incident has raised questions about employer responsibilities and safety protocols during natural disasters.

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I regret why such a mistake was made.