CATCH ME UP
An express train killed four maintenance workers at Shin-Kanuma Station north of Tokyo on Thursday.
The victims were part of a ten-member maintenance team spraying herbicide on the tracks.
Those killed were identified as three laborers and one supervisor, aged in their 50s and 60s.
The collision occurred while the group was performing routine weed-control work for Tobu Railway.
More context
Police are investigating whether mandatory safety protocols were properly followed at the site.
Initial claims from the railway operator suggested the lookout system was operating normally.
Officials later declined to confirm if lookouts were actively watching before the impact.
Investigators are focusing on the implementation of the standard safety system for track workers.
Local authorities are treating the incident as a potential breach of safety regulations.
The fatal accident has raised questions regarding communication between train operators and ground crews.