Unsolved Mysteries: Setagaya Family Murder Case
Introduction
- One of Japan's biggest unsolved mysteries with many clues left by the suspect.
- Suspect believed to be Korean by many, but theory suggests an American suspect possibility.
- Case details multiple speculations and theories.
Background
- Location: Setagaya, a province in Japan.
- Date: December 30, 2000.
- Victims: Miyazawa family - Mikio (father), Yasuko (mother), 6-year-old son, 8-year-old daughter.
- Mikio worked at a British marketing firm, lived in a large house adjacent to a park.
Crime Details
- Discovery: Family found murdered on December 31 by relatives.
- Crime Scene: Entered through second-floor bathroom window. Suspect climbed fence and removed window screen.
- Sequence:
- Suspect likely started with the youngest son.
- Mikio confronted suspect, leading to a struggle and murder.
- Yasuko and daughter murdered on the third floor.
- Evidence: Pool of blood, signs of struggle, broken weapon.
Suspect Details
- Behavior: Stayed at the crime scene, ate food, used the bathroom without flushing.
- Clothing and Items: Left behind clothing, shoes, a bag, and a unique baseball shirt.
- DNA Evidence: Of mixed race, East Asian father and possibly European descent mother.
Theories and Speculations
- Korean Connection:
- Evidence suggests a Korean suspect: clothing and knife possibly purchased in Kanagawa Prefecture.
- Fingerprints checked in Korean database showed no match.
- American Connection:
- Sand in suspect's bag linked to Nevada desert, near Edwards Air Force Base.
- Theory suggests suspect might be U.S. military personnel or related, stationed in Japan.
Investigation and Challenges
- Police Work:
- Involvement of over 246,000 investigators and collection of over 12,545 pieces of evidence.
- Criticism for potential mishandling of investigation.
- Psychic Sketch:
- Sketch made by a psychic, not a witness, contributing to misconceptions.
Conclusion
- The motive remains unclear: revenge, random act, hired murder?
- Japanese law changed to remove statute of limitations for severe crimes.
- Relatives continue to seek public assistance in solving the case.
Speculative Thoughts
- Possible military involvement or protection; could be solved with international DNA testing.
- Case remains unsolved, with relatives still seeking answers.
Note: These notes summarize a combination of case details, investigative findings, and speculative theories surrounding the unsolved Setagaya family murder case. The case remains open with ongoing interest and efforts to solve it.