A woman prays in Kyoto, Japan, in front of a line of flowers for victims of Kyoto animation building in Kyoto on July 20, 2019. Photo Credit: Kim Cuong-Hun

The death sentence for Xinji Aoba, responsible for the deadly 2019 arson attack on Kyoto animation, has been finalized after his appeal was withdrawn, the Osaka High Court of Japan confirmed on Tuesday. The ruling brings a sense of closure of one of the most destructive crimes in the modern history of the country.

Aoba, 46, was convicted of murder and other allegations for setting fire in Studio 1 of Kyoto Animation in January 2024, resulting in 36 people killed and 32 others injured. The Kyoto District Court determined that despite suffering from an illusion disorder, AOBA was mentally capable that was criminally responsible for its functions. Initially, his defense team appealed for the verdict, arguing that his mental state sentenced a low sentence. However, Aoba withdrew the appeal on Monday, effectively sealed its fate.

Smoke Bill from a three -storey building of Kyoto animation in fire in Kyoto, western Japan, on 18 July, 2019.

While Aoba has expressed regrets in court, many bereaved families are unrelated. Megumu’s grandfather, one of the young animals killed in the fire, accepted a small sense of relief, but said that there was no true apology in AOBA words. Other relatives continue to struggle with their grief and anger, ask why the criminal still lives while they mourn their loved ones daily.

The attack, one of Japan’s worst mass murders, shocked the nation and the global anime community. Famous for works like Kyoto animation The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya, K-on!And ClanadSignificant damage faced, but has continued its legacy since then. After the tragedy, supporters worldwide raised funds to assist in the recovery of studios.

With finalizing the ABA punishment, its execution is now determined to move forward, although an accurate date is unknown.