Asahiyama Zoo Incident: Employee Confesses to Disposing of Wife’s Body

A zoo employee at Asahiyama Zoo allegedly confessed on April 29, 2026, to disposing of his wife’s body in the facility’s incinerator. This revelation has triggered a nationwide investigation and led to the indefinite closure of one of Japan’s most popular zoos.

The employee, a man in his 30s, faces arrest on suspicion of illegally dumping his wife’s body. She had been reported missing since late March 2026. The Hokkaido prefectural police are currently conducting forensic investigations, which include searching both the zoo’s incinerator and the employee’s home.

The incident has raised significant concerns regarding domestic violence and workplace isolation in northern Japan. Hirosuke Imazu, an official from the zoo, described the decision to postpone its reopening as “painful”. He emphasized that a zoo exists to be seen by visitors, highlighting the impact of this incident.

Asahiyama Zoo is known for its behavioral exhibits and typically attracts over 1.33 million visitors annually. The zoo was originally closed for renovations before this tragic event unfolded. Now, with its closure expected to last until May 2026, it faces an estimated revenue loss of 150 million JPY.

During the Golden Week holidays—a peak tourist season—the mayor of Asahikawa expressed regret over the inconvenience caused to visitors. The community is left grappling with the fallout from this shocking incident.

Forensic teams are currently sifting through ash and bone fragments from the incinerator as part of their investigation. This case has not only affected the zoo’s reputation but also raised broader questions about safety and domestic issues within families.