4 Workers Die After Falling into Manhole in Japan

Four workers in Japan lost their lives after falling into a manhole during a sewage inspection in the city of Gyoda, authorities confirmed on Sunday.

The men, all in their fifties, were part of a seven-member crew conducting a nationwide sewage pipe survey on Saturday. One worker reportedly fell into the manhole for unknown reasons. As three others attempted a rescue, they too fell inside.

Emergency responders retrieved all four individuals, but they were later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital, according to local media reports.

Preliminary investigations by the fire department revealed the presence of hydrogen sulfide, a highly toxic gas, near the site. Law enforcement also confirmed the gas was detected and suspect that inhalation may have played a role in the fatalities.

The city of Gyoda has yet to confirm the cause of the incident. A municipal official, speaking anonymously, said it was too early to determine responsibility, noting that the full circumstances remain under investigation.