GPS in teddy, stab wound in the neck: How an estranged ex-boyfriend murdered a pregnant woman in Japan

A 31-year-old pregnant manicurist in Japan was allegedly killed by her former boyfriend, who is accused of tracking her movements using a Global Positioning System device concealed inside a teddy bear, according to a report by the South China Morning Post.

The victim, identified as Haruka Komatsumoto, was allegedly beaten and suffered a stab wound to the neck at her home on December 31, the final day of 2025. The report said she also sustained injuries on her arms while trying to protect her unborn baby.

Police arrested the suspect, Takumi Ouchi, in Ibaraki prefecture on January 21, around 20 days after the incident. He has been taken into custody on suspicion in connection with the killing but has denied the crime.

According to the report, Komatsumoto had dated Ouchi for less than a year before ending the relationship in 2024. After the breakup, Ouchi allegedly continued to pursue her and harassed her with repeated phone calls and messages, following which she blocked him.

The report said Ouchi then attempted to track her by sending a teddy bear with a GPS tracking device hidden inside. The toy, described as a lucky draw gift, was delivered to her parents’ home and later reached her apartment, where she lived with her husband.

The case has triggered widespread concern in Japan over the misuse of location tracking devices, with experts calling for stricter regulations.

The incident has also drawn strong reactions on Japanese social media. One user said, “If I were targeted by a stalker using a GPS tracker, there would be no way to escape. It is horrible. Poor victim.”

Another user commented, “I would be afraid of plush toys given by people I do not know very well,” as quoted by SCMP.