A fatal stabbing incident occurred on the evening of March 26, 2026, at the Pokémon Center located within Sunshine City in Ikebukuro, Tokyo. A female store employee in her 20s was fatally stabbed by a man, who then stabbed himself in the neck. Both individuals were pronounced dead after being transported to the hospital. The incident has shocked society and raised concerns about commercial facility safety and employee protection.
Following the incident, the official Pokémon Center management issued a statement later that day, announcing the temporary closure of "Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo" and "Pikachu Sweets by Pokémon Cafe" at Ikebukuro Sunshine City. The announcement stated that operations would be suspended until further notice to fully cooperate with the police investigation and prioritize the physical and mental well-being of their employees. 
The official statement also expressed deep apologies for the concern and inconvenience caused to customers, emphasizing that the reopening date would be announced later and requesting understanding and patience. This violent incident, occurring in a popular tourist and family-friendly location, has not only resulted in significant casualties but has also brought public safety concerns back into the spotlight.
According to police, the incident occurred around 7:15 PM Japan time at the Pokémon Center on the second floor of Sunshine City in Higashi-Ikebukuro, Toshima Ward, Tokyo. A man, armed with two knives, entered the counter area and suddenly attacked a female employee.
Shouts were reportedly heard at the scene, and mall staff quickly brought AEDs and protective equipment while evacuating nearby customers. After the attack, the man used a knife to cut his own neck. Both individuals were unconscious when transported to the hospital and were later confirmed dead. Police are currently investigating whether the two knew each each other and the motive behind the crime.