Japan Police Give Grim Update After Former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe Shot Friday

NARA, JAPAN. (THECOUNT) — Police have provided a grim update after former Japan prime minister Shinzo Abe was shot by an apparent assassin Friday. The shooter was taken into custody.

According to Japan officials, the prime minister is “showing no vital signs.”

The United States is “saddened and shocked” by the shooting of Japan’s former prime minister Shinzo Abe, US ambassador Rahm Emanuel said on Friday.

“Abe-san has been an outstanding leader of Japan and unwavering ally of the United States,” Emanuel said in a statement.

“The U.S. government and American people are praying for the well-being of Abe-san, his family, and the people of Japan.”

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Geo quick facts: Nara is the capital of Japan’s Nara Prefecture, in south-central Honshu. The city has significant temples and artwork dating to the 8th century, when it was Japan’s capital. Deer roam in Nara Park, site of Tōdai-ji temple. Daibutsu, Tōdai-ji’s 15m-high bronze Buddha, is displayed in a large wooden hall. On the park’s east side is the Shinto shrine Kasuga Taisha, which dates to 768 A.D. and more than 3,000 lanterns – wikipedia.