TOKYO: Japanese mystery fiction author Keigo Higashino has died aged 68, his publisher said on Monday, triggering an outpouring of grief among fans across Asia.

Since his 1985 debut, Higashino wrote more than 100 books, with his works translated and published in over 40 countries and territories, and widely adapted for film and television.

“Author Keigo Higashino passed away due to colon cancer in the early morning of July 23. He was 68,” publisher Kodansha said in a statement.

A statement posted on Higashino’s X account said that the author’s “published works, from his debut novel ‘After School’, released in September 1985, to his latest book Eternal Memory, scheduled for release on August 5, 2026, total 106 books”.

“The stories he created will continue to captivate many readers,” the statement said.

Known for his versatility, the award-winning novelist had worked as an engineer before switching to writing full-time.

Published in Dawn, July 28th, 2026