The Japanese government has confirmed that former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has been shot, BTA reported, citing France Press.

US Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel said today that he was "saddened and shocked" by the news of Abe's shooting death.

The former prime minister was shot at a political event, France Press recalls.

Former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was shot in the back

"We are saddened and shocked by the shooting death of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. He was an incredible leader of Japan and a staunch ally of the United States. The US government and the American people pray for the well-being of Abe, his family, and the Japanese people." Emmanuel said in a statement.

shooting

Shinzo Abe