A man confessed to the 1978 murder of a female teacher in Adachi Ward after the statute of limitations expired. The victim, Chika Ishikawa, was last seen during summer vacation, and her disappearance remained a mystery for 26 years. According to local sources, the man, who had been a security officer at the same elementary school where Ishikawa worked, turned himself in at Ayase Police Station in August 2004, stating he had killed her following an argument on the school grounds.
The man’s confession revealed chilling details: after killing Ishikawa, he reportedly buried her body beneath the floorboards of his home while his wife was away. Police later confirmed the discovery of a partially skeletal body and Ishikawa’s personal belongings at the location described. Despite his admission, the man was not detained due to the expiration of the statute of limitations, which at the time was 15 years for murder.
The suspect’s behavior in the years following the crime raised suspicions. He had fortified his home with iron gates, corrugated iron sheets, and security cameras, leading neighbors to describe him as intimidating and reclusive. Additionally, he made efforts to avoid relocation during a land readjustment project, claiming he was living with elderly relatives. The motive behind his confession appeared to be the imminent discovery of the body due to the planned demolition of his house.
This case highlights the disturbing implications of a now-abolished statute of limitations. While the murder was technically resolved, the victim’s family filed a 180 million yen damages claim, seeking justice. The outcome of this legal battle may provide some closure, though the moral and legal questions surrounding the case remain troubling.