Akira Toriyama dies at 68: Dragon Ball creator dies from hemorrhage near brain as fans mourn his loss and honor his legacy in Japanese manga

Dragon Ball creator Akira Toriyama has died at the age of 68 as a result of a hemorrhage near his brain, his studio reported Thursday.

Toriyama died on March 1 as a result of the condition known as acute subdural hematoma, as reported by the Dragon Ball studio in a statement on social networks.

The Dragon Ball studio said it was its “deep regret” that Toriyama “still had multiple jobs in the midst of creation with great enthusiasm” as he “would have many more things to achieve.”

‘However, he has left many manga titles and works of art to this world. We hope that Akira Toriyama’s unique world of creation will continue to be loved by everyone for a long time to come.”

The Dragon Ball comic came out in 1984 and became a huge success, with spin-off films, games and cartoons.

The statement continues: ‘Thanks to the support of so many people around the world, he has been able to continue his creative activities for over 45 years.

“We hope that Akira Toriyama’s unique world of creation will continue to be loved by everyone for a long time.”

The studio said that ‘a funeral was held with his family and very few relatives,’ requesting privacy for his family, and that fans refrain from visiting him, sending him flowers, gifts or any other offerings.

No decision has been made regarding a “memorial gathering” in Toriyama’s memory, the studio said, adding that it will provide more information when it becomes available.

“We deeply appreciate your understanding and support as always,” the studio said in concluding the statement.

Dragon Ball centers on Son Goku, a boy seeking to gather a collection of magical dragon balls in the midst of a fight to protect the planet from the Saiyans, a group of alien humanoids.

Toriyama is survived by his wife Yoshimi Katō and two children.