Friday, July 30, 2010

Tokyo's Oldest Man Dead For 30 Years

Officials in were under the impression that Sogen Kato was the oldest living man in Tokyo until they recently went to his home to wish him a happy 111th birthday.  They made a shocking discovery when they learned that Mr. Kato had died.  Quite possibly Mr. Kato could have died as many as thirty years ago.

Kato's family has denied visits from welfare officials before.  On Wednesday, July 28, 2010, police forced their way into the home and found Mr. Kato's mummified remains in his bed.

According to Mr. Kato's family, he confined himself to his bedroom more than three decades ago and "became a living Buddha". 

Kato's family is currently being investigated for fraud as they have received 9.5 million yen ($109,000) in widower's pension payments after the death of Kato's wife six years ago and recently withdrew some of the funds.

Source:  http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-pacific-10809128

2 comments:

  1. What do you get Buddha for his 111th birthday, anyway?

    Great article.

    ReplyDelete
  2. I don't know but I would imagine he would prefer to get peace and tranquility.

    This article was unbelievable and kind of creepy at the same time.

    ReplyDelete