Mujer de Hong Kong muerta, otras 5 heridas en accidente de coche en Hokkaido, Japón

A 53-year-old woman from Hong Kong died and five others were injured in a severe car crash in Hokkaido, Japan, on Monday, marking the second such incident involving city residents in the region within a week. The collision occurred on National Route 38 near Furano, approximately 3.30pm local time, according to Japanese media reports. A rental car driven by the woman's husband, a 52-year-old man, crossed into the opposite lane and struck another vehicle carrying two Japanese nationals. The victims included the woman, who was seated in the front passenger seat, and their two teenage daughters in the rear. The Japanese couple, both in their twenties, also suffered injuries. The crash took place on a stretch of road connecting the towns of Takikawa, Akabira, and Furano, areas known for attracting tourists. Local authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the fatal accident, focusing on why the rental car veered into oncoming traffic. Police have not yet released further details regarding the circumstances leading up to the collision. The Hong Kong Immigration Department has been informed of the incident and has contacted the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong and the Chinese consulate general in Sapporo. This coordination reflects the ongoing efforts to support citizens abroad, particularly in cases involving serious injury or death. The department confirmed it received a request for assistance following the crash. The family of the deceased woman, originally from Hong Kong, was reportedly traveling together in the rental car. The driver, her husband, remains under police scrutiny as part of the ongoing inquiry. The identities of the injured individuals have not been disclosed publicly, though the Japanese nationals involved are understood to be in stable condition following medical treatment. This incident follows a similar traffic accident in Hokkaido just days earlier, which also involved city residents. While the exact causes of these consecutive incidents remain under investigation, officials have expressed concern over the safety of roads frequented by tourists. The area around National Route 38 is known for its scenic beauty and seasonal attractions, drawing visitors throughout the year. Authorities are urging drivers to exercise caution, especially during peak travel periods. They have also advised travelers to familiarize themselves with local road conditions and adhere strictly to traffic regulations. In response to the recent accidents, some local government representatives have called for increased monitoring of high-traffic routes and enhanced signage to prevent future collisions. However, no immediate measures have been announced.