Shinzo Abe dies after fatal shooting
Shinzo Abe, Japan's longest running prime minister, has died in hospital after being shot in the neck.
The 67-year-old was confirmed dead by Japan's public broadcaster, saying doctors art the Nara Medical University Hospital were unable to save him despite their best efforts.
The former PM was rushed to hospital after being shot while giving a campaign speech, and was bleeding profusely when he arrived to the hospital.
Shinzo sustained bullet wounds to the right side of his neck, with doctors saying he had no vital signs upon his arrival.
Despite a blood transfusion, the doctors were unable to save Mr Abe as the injuries he sustained during the shooting where deep enough to reach his heart.
One doctor said, "Because of the large amount of haemorrhage, it was not possible for us to stop the bleeding."
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese issued a statement on Mr Abe's death, as he expressed his condolences for "one of Australia's closest friends".
He said, "The tragic death of former Japanese Prime Minister Abe Shinzo is devastating news. On behalf of the Australian Government and people, we offer our deepest sympathies and condolences to Mrs Abe and to Mr Abe’s family and friends, and to the people of Japan."
"He will be greatly missed."
New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern shared a tribute to the leader, writing on Twitter, "So deeply shocked to hear about the past PM of Japan-Shinzo Abe. He was one of the first leaders I met when I became PM. He was deeply committed to his role but also generous & kind. My thoughts are with his wife and the people of Japan."
"Events like this shake us all to the core."
Japan's leader Fumio Kishida said the attack on Abe during an election campaign was an attack on “the very foundation of democracy”.
“This barbaric, malicious act in the middle of an election cannot be tolerated,” he said.
A 41-year-old man has been arrested in relation to the shooting.
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