Tokyo primary school fire injures nine, 300 evacuated

A fire broke out at a primary school in Tokyo's Kita Ward on the morning of June 19, 2026, prompting the evacuation of about 300 students to the school playground. The Tokyo Fire Department deployed 51 fire engines, including pump trucks, to combat the blaze, which was still spreading at the time of reporting. Authorities initially expressed concern that some individuals might not have escaped in time, but later updates from the Tokyo Metropolitan Police confirmed that all students and staff had been accounted for.

According to police, nine people were injured in the incident, including eight students and one teacher. Seven of the students suffered minor injuries due to smoke inhalation, while details on the remaining two injured individuals are still being assessed. Emergency services are continuing to monitor the conditions of the injured and investigate the cause of the fire.

The school, located in a residential area of Kita Ward, was quickly cordoned off as fire crews worked to bring the flames under control. Local authorities have not yet determined what sparked the fire, and an official investigation is underway. Parents and guardians were notified to collect their children from the evacuation point.

This incident has raised concerns about fire safety in Japanese schools, though no structural collapse or further escalation has been reported. Officials have assured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the safety of students and staff.