A shocking case has emerged in Japan, where a man named Takahiro Shiraishi admitted to killing nine people he met through Twitter. These victims were all struggling with suicidal thoughts. Shiraishi claimed he could help them end their pain, even suggesting he would die with them.
His Twitter profile had a troubling message: "I want to help people who are really in pain. Please DM me anytime." This drew in those who were vulnerable and seeking support.
When police searched Shiraishi’s apartment, they discovered nine dismembered bodies hidden in coolers and toolboxes. The scene was so horrific that the media referred to it as a "house of horrors."
Prosecutors aimed for the death penalty for Shiraishi. However, his legal team argued that his victims had consented to their deaths, which they called "murder with consent." They also requested a mental health evaluation for him. Yet, Shiraishi later contradicted this defense, stating he killed without the victims’ consent.
In December 2020, Shiraishi was sentenced to death. His verdict hearing attracted hundreds of people, reflecting the public’s outrage and fascination with the case.
This tragic situation has led to changes on Twitter, which updated its policies to prohibit the promotion of suicide and self-harm.
For anyone feeling distressed or in need of support, resources are available. In the UK, you can call 0800 066 066 for recorded information. In Japan, help can be found at telljp.com.