01/24/03 (Tokyo, Japan) - On January 24, 2003, Shonen Jump Editor-in-Chief Toshimasa Takahashi passed away. Takahashi was attending a press conference for the March 2003 release of the Toei anime film One Piece Dead End Adventure. The press conference was held on a luxury cruise ship named the Symphony Moderna and was cruising in the Tokyo Bay at the time of the conference.

It was reported that after the first five minutes of the conference, Takahashi started to look ill. After the trailer for the movie was shown, Toei Animation president Tsutomu Tomari began his greeting to the press. During Tomari's greeting, Takahashi made a sudden "snore-like" sound and suddenly fell unconscious.

The press conference was immediately cancelled. Although he was unconscious, others tried to administer first aid. It is reported that he started to look better at that time. But, when his name was called, he did not reply. Twenty minutes later, the ship docked and he was taken to Seiroka International Hospital in Chuo-ku, Tokyo. He was administered care in the Intensive Care Unit, but never regained consciousness and passed away at 4:51 pm. Although it has not been confirmed, it is speculated that he may have suffered from a stroke. According to Shueisha, they were never aware if Takahashi had any illnesses.

Due to his sudden death, Shueisha reported they do not know what they will do yet. Actress Miki Sakai (24), who is making her first voice acting debut in the movie quoted, "Since it was so sudden, it took me by surprise. While praying for him with all my heart, I will try to do my best to ensure the movie becomes a great film." Also, Toei Animation also stated, "Since this happened suddenly, it cannot be put into words. We mourn his death and pray from the bottom of our hearts that he may rest in peace."

Takahashi was 44 years old when he passed away. He was born in July 1958 and graduated from Waseda University in Tokyo. He joined Shueisha in 1981 and was assigned editorial duties. In October 1995, he was assigned as Assistant Editor-in-Chief. In July 31, 2001, he promoted to Editor-in-Chief of Shonen Jump. During his employment with Shueisha, he brought hit titles such as Bastard and Tsuide ni Tonchinkan.