New Delhi, July 1 -- Jim Shooter, one of the most influential figures in the comic book industry and former Editor-in-Chief of Marvel Comics, has passed away at the age of 73 after a long battle with esophageal cancer.

The news of his death was shared by comic book writer Mark Waid, who paid tribute to Shooter's lasting legacy in a heartfelt Facebook post.

"I've just received word that Jim Shooter passed away. I regret that I didn't get a chance to say goodbye, but I'm glad he's finally at peace after years of suffering," Waid wrote.

Shooter entered the world of professional comics at the age of 14, writing for DC Comics titles such as Adventure Comics, Superboy, Superman, and Legion of Super-Heroes. His early work introduced character...