Ginza odor incident: suspected spray near GINZA SIX sickens 23, police investigate
Ginza odor incident: a suspected spray near GINZA SIX on May 25 left 23 people with throat pain; police and fire department closed the area and treated victims.
On May 25, 2026, around noon, emergency services responded to reports of a strong odor near the GINZA SIX commercial complex in Tokyo’s Chuo Ward. The Ginza odor incident prompted multiple 119 calls from passersby and workers who reported irritation and an unusual smell. Authorities quickly cordoned off the surrounding blocks and began emergency treatment and an investigation.
Incident reported near GINZA SIX at midday
According to the Tokyo Fire Department, the first reports came in shortly before 12:00 local time, with callers describing a penetrating odor in the Ginza shopping district. The area around GINZA SIX, a prominent retail facility in Ginza 6-chome, was identified as the focal point of the complaints. Emergency units arrived within minutes and began assessing the scene for hazardous substances.
Victims and medical response
Police and fire officials reported that 23 people complained of throat pain or similar irritation, and one person was transported to hospital for further evaluation. All those affected were reported to be conscious at the time of transport, and most received on-site care from emergency medical teams. Specialized medical personnel were put on standby in case symptoms escalated or additional exposures emerged.
Protective measures by emergency crews
Photographs and scene reports show firefighters entering GINZA SIX’s first-floor bank entrance wearing orange protective suits and respirators around 13:00. The Tokyo Fire Department deployed personnel equipped for possible chemical or irritant incidents, and at least one specialized emergency vehicle was on site. Responders used caution in examining the premises and treating people to limit further exposure.
Eyewitness accounts indicate a sprayed irritant
Multiple eyewitnesses told authorities they saw what appeared to be a spray or fogging device that resembled a tear-gas-style canister, prompting immediate complaints of burning in the throat. Investigators are treating those accounts as potential leads while collecting security-camera footage and interviewing witnesses. At this stage officials have not confirmed the exact substance or motive behind the alleged spraying.
Traffic restrictions and emergency deployment
Streets around the scene were closed to pedestrian and vehicle traffic as a precaution while police and firefighters secured the area. More than ten ambulances, including specialized units, were dispatched to support evacuation and medical screening efforts. Nearby businesses temporarily halted operations and nearby foot traffic was redirected until authorities deemed the area safe.
Police and fire department probe underway
The Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department is leading the criminal and public-safety aspects of the inquiry while the Tokyo Fire Department conducts hazardous-material assessments. Officers are gathering surveillance footage, witness statements and any physical evidence that may indicate the type of agent used or the identity of the person or group responsible. Authorities said they will release further information once laboratory results and interviews provide clearer findings.
Local retailers and commuters in the immediate vicinity reported disruption to daily activity, with some shops closing for the afternoon and public transport passengers being advised to avoid the block. GINZA SIX management cooperated with emergency crews to facilitate access for first responders and to help identify staff and visitors who may have been exposed. City officials urged calm and recommended that anyone experiencing persistent symptoms seek medical attention.
Authorities reiterated standard safety steps to the public, including avoiding the area, seeking fresh air if exposed and washing exposed skin and clothing. Officials also asked witnesses to provide any relevant video or images to the police to aid the investigation. Emergency hotlines remained available as responders continued to monitor the scene.
The latest official update on the Ginza odor incident was issued at 13:56 JST on May 25, 2026, indicating that the situation remained under active investigation and that most reported victims had received on-site care. Police have not announced any arrests or named a suspect as of that update. Investigators continue to work to establish the cause and to determine whether criminal charges will follow.
Authorities said they will publish further findings when laboratory analyses and witness interviews are complete, and residents were advised to follow official channels for updates. The Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department and the Tokyo Fire Department urged anyone with new information to come forward to assist the probe.
