By Kiyoshi Takenaka

OSAKA (Reuters – A steady stream of patients visited the spot of fire Saturday to praise Dr. Osaka, the Japanese psychiatry doctor at the center of a suspected arson attack which claimed 24 lives.

Unfortunately, the fate of Kotaro Nishawa is still unknown. The clinic was located in central Osaka and offered treatments for panic disorder and depression. Patients were also able to return to work.

“I suffered from depression three years ago and found myself unable to go to work,” Toshiya Tanaka, 56, told reporters gathered at the scene.

“The doctor informed me that Mr. Tanaka, please take a nap. There is no need for you to do anything. It is depression. Take a break. It still rings in my ears. His comment saved me.

The blaze began https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/patient-says-cannot-forgive-suspected-arsonist-fatal-japan-clinic-blaze-2021-12-18 when a man entered the clinic on Friday carrying a bag of liquid which caught fire.

One 51-year-old worker at the company said, “The doctor has such a kind heart.”

He was so happy to see me return to work and he congratulated my efforts and said, “Let’s all live slow and steady.”

According to the website, the clinic was destroyed by fire and aimed to create a “quiet atmosphere that alleviates even slightly the tiredness of people returning home from work.”

He is an affectionate doctor. It’s so sad. “I pray for his safety, and I hope that justice is served for anyone who was responsible,” stated a student at Kobe College.