Hoto-ji Fire

Description

On the night of February 13, 2026, a fire destroyed the two-story residence of the head priest at Hoto-ji in Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture. One body was found; the priest's wife in her 70s could not be contacted. The priest, age 81, and his son in his 50s were taken to hospital after inhaling smoke but were not in life-threatening condition. The fire was reported around 9:30 p.m. Police are confirming the identity of the deceased and investigating the cause.