Tetsuya Yamagami, aged 45, admitted killing former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in a court hearing held on 28 October 2025. The trial began at the Nara District Court, three years after the assassination. Yamagami faced charges of murder and violations related to firearms laws for using a homemade gun to shoot Japan’s longest-serving leader during a campaign speech in July 2022. He stated plainly, “Everything is true,” confirming the accusations against him without dispute.
Tetsuya Yamagami pleaded guilty before the court
Details of the Assassination
On 8 July 2022, Shinzo Abe delivered a speech for an upcoming Upper House election candidate at Yamato-Saidaiji Station’s northern exit in Nara City, western Japan. Yamagami approached Abe from behind, carrying a homemade shotgun. He fired twice. The first shot missed, causing Abe to turn and face the attacker. The second shot struck Abe in the neck and chest areas. Abe fell to the ground moments later. Security personnel detained Yamagami at the scene immediately without resistance.
Tetsuya Yamagami can be seen behind former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe
Medical Response and Abe’s Death
Paramedics arrived within minutes after the shooting. Abe showed no vital signs when he reached Nara Medical University Hospital, despite emergency medical efforts. The former prime minister succumbed to his wounds shortly after arrival. The shock of the assassination caused widespread disbelief in Japan and beyond, due to the country’s rare experience with gun violence and political attacks.
Motivation Behind the Attack
Investigations revealed that Yamagami held a grudge against the Unification Church, a controversial religious group linked to many Japanese politicians, including Abe. Yamagami’s mother had donated around 100 million yen (about $663,000) to the church, causing his family financial ruin. Yamagami blamed Abe for supporting the church and its influence, which he believed destroyed his family’s wellbeing.
Courtroom Timeline
The trial of Tetsuya Yamagami began on 28 October 2025 at the Nara District Court. The proceedings will include 19 sessions, spanning until January 2026. The court will hold multiple hearings to examine witnesses and hear detailed statements from the defendant. Yamagami’s own testimony will be heard across five sessions scheduled to start in November 2025. A verdict is expected to be delivered by 21 January 2026.
Key Legal Charges
Tetsuya Yamagami faces several legal charges linked to the assassination of Shinzo Abe:
- Murder of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe
- Violations of the Firearms and Swords Control Law for possession and manufacturing of illegal weapons
- Illegal manufacture and possession of homemade firearms and explosives
- Property damage caused during the attack
- Breach of explosives regulation laws due to components used in the homemade gun
The defence argues that homemade guns may fall outside some firearms legal definitions, seeking leniency on related charges. However, the prosecution holds firm on the severity of all charges combined. The trial will determine the final legal responsibility and related sentencing for Yamagami.
The case remains one of Japan’s most significant legal proceedings in recent years, given the political implications and the rare occurrence of such a high-profile assassination on Japanese soil. The trial will deeply analyse both the criminal acts and their wider social consequences.
The homemade gun used in the assassination of Shinzo Abe
Security and Gun Law Context
Japan has strict gun controls and very low rates of gun violence. The assassination of Abe shocked the nation, given its rarity. Security at the campaign event failed to prevent Yamagami from approaching Abe with a homemade weapon. The case has led to further scrutiny of security protocols and efforts to prevent political violence in Japan.
Public and Political Impact
The assassination triggered an intense examination of ties between the ruling Liberal Democratic Party and the Unification Church. More than 100 lawmakers were found connected to the church, which affected public trust in the government. The controversy continues to challenge political leaders, including Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, as they work to restore confidence among voters.
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Final Remarks
Tetsuya Yamagami’s admission of guilt marks a critical development in the case of Shinzo Abe’s assassination. The trial will explore the extent of his responsibility and the legal consequences of his actions. Meanwhile, Japan continues to grapple with the political and social repercussions stemming from the shocking attack on its longest-serving prime minister.
