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Man suspected of bludgeoning hotel employee in Ehime apprehended in Osaka

EHIME (TR) – A male acquaintance of an elderly woman who was found beaten and left unconscious at the business hotel in Saijo City where she works has been arrested in Osaka City on suspicion of attempted murder, police have revealed.

Police have accused Hiromichi Iwaki, 43, of hitting manager Chizuru Shuto, 70, over the head between the night of December 21 and early the following morning at the hotel, located the Sakuichi area.

Iwaki lives in Nishinari Ward, Osaka City. According to police, he admits to hitting the victim, but denies any intention to kill her.

Shuto was found collapsed and bleeding from her head early on Monday. She remains unconscious and in critical condition.

Hiromichi Iwaki (X)

On Monday, Iwaki showed up at a law firm in Osaka City, more than 200 kilometers away from the Saijo, and hinted his involvement in the crime. The firm then called police.

According to investigators, a bloody ashtray was found at the scene. Police believe it is possible that it was the weapon used in the crime.

Police interviews have revealed that there was a financial dispute between Iwaki and Shuto. .

Police plan to send the suspect to prosecutors on Tuesday. The motive for the crime is still under investigation.