A tragic incident occurred in July 2019 in Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture, involving the death of an 11-year-old boy after a fallen pine tree collided with the vehicle he was traveling in. His mother, Asuka Uchiama, is now suing the national government, the prefectural government, and the city of Karatsu for approximately ¥31.6 million in damages, claiming negligence in administrative management contributed to this tragic accident. During a court hearing at the Saga District Court, Uchiama testified that both the administrative oversight and the initial investigation into the incident were grossly inadequate.

Details from the lawsuit reveal that the accident transpired on the evening of July 20, 2019, when a heavy pine tree, measuring up to three meters in circumference, fell onto a light vehicle driven by Uchiama. Her fifth-grade son, who was seated in the passenger seat, was fatally struck. The location of the tree's breakage raised concerns, as it was reported to have split six meters above the ground, raising questions about the maintenance of potentially hazardous vegetation in public areas.

The case has sparked public interest and concern regarding safety standards and administrative responsibilities, particularly in managing natural hazards that could pose risks to public safety. Uchiama’s lawsuit aims not just for financial compensation, but also seeks to hold accountable those responsible for ensuring safe environments for residents and to advocate for improved preventive measures with respect to falling trees in urban areas. This legal battle touches on broader issues of governmental accountability and community safety in Japan.