U.S. Embassy Statement Regarding the Murder of Mr. Masaaki Takahashi in Yokosuka City

April 3, 2008

The American Embassy in Tokyo deeply regrets the murder of Mr. Masaaki Takahashi. We were shocked and saddened by this brutal crime, and our sincere condolences and sympathies go out to Mr. Takahashi's family. The United States Government will take all possible steps to assist Japanese authorities in their investigation of Mr. Takahashi's death.

U.S. Ambassador J. Thomas Schieffer made the following statement:

My heartfelt and deep condolences go out to the family and friends of Mr. Masaaki Takahashi. His brutal murder is a shock and outrage to all those who believe in a civilized society. Mr. Takahashi was simply trying to do his job. His loss is an immense tragedy for law-abiding citizens everywhere. The Embassy of the United States is closely following the investigation and will cooperate in any way possible with Japanese authorities so that the murderer of Mr. Takahashi can be brought to justice.