Firefighters responded to an emergency call from the boy's mother and spent approximately 40 minutes freeing the unconscious child from the machinery. Goto, who was wearing ski attire and boots at the time of the incident, was then transported to a hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Travelators, also known as moving walkways or autowalks, utilize a continuous loop of pallets or a belt to transport people horizontally or on an incline. The mechanisms typically involve a series of rollers and gears to propel the surface, with safety features designed to prevent accidents. However, incidents can occur if clothing or body parts become entangled in the moving parts, particularly at entry and exit points.

The incident has prompted renewed scrutiny of safety protocols at ski resorts and other facilities utilizing travelators. Industry experts emphasize the importance of regular maintenance, clear signage, and readily accessible emergency stop buttons to minimize the risk of accidents. Furthermore, user awareness and adherence to safety guidelines are crucial for preventing injuries.

The Otaru ski resort has temporarily suspended operation of the travelator pending a thorough safety inspection and investigation into the cause of the accident. Local authorities are also reviewing safety regulations for travelators and similar equipment to determine if additional measures are necessary to prevent future incidents. The investigation is ongoing.