Japan Executes 'Twitter Killer' Takahiro Shiraishi After Serial Murders

In a disturbing case that has ignited public and media scrutiny about mental health, social media influences, and criminal justice, Takahiro Shiraishi was executed by the Japanese state for his heinous crimes. Dubbed the "Twitter killer," Shiraishi, who targeted young, suicidal individuals, lured them to his home under the pretense of offering help but instead subjected them to brutal murders that he later confessed to. The impact of his actions led to a national conversation about how suicide is approached online, prompting changes to social media platform policies on discussions of self-harm.

The justice minister stated that the execution was essential due to the crime's shocking nature and Shiraishi's motivations. The case continues to resonate in society, raising broader concerns about the intersection of mental health support, social media behavior, and the responsibilities of platforms in preventing such tragedies.


Japan has executed Takahiro Shiraishi, known as the "Twitter killer," who murdered nine people in 2017. His actions sparked national debate over how suicide is discussed online, highlighting the dangers of exploiting vulnerable individuals on social media. Shiraishi's execution marks a significant moment in Japan's criminal justice history, bringing attention to mental health support and platform responsibilities in curbing similar tragedies.