Brighton winger Kaoru Mitoma has become the focus of a police investigation in Japan after being involved in a traffic accident that left a cyclist injured.
The incident has generated significant attention both in Japan and England, where the 29-year-old has established himself as one of Brighton’s standout players. While authorities continue gathering information, Mitoma and his representatives have publicly apologized and pledged full cooperation with the investigation.
For a player admired for his professionalism and quiet personality, the news has come as an unexpected development during what was supposed to be the start of his preparations for the new club season.
As the legal process unfolds, both Brighton supporters and Japanese football fans will be hoping for clarity regarding exactly what happened.
According to reports from Japan, the accident occurred at an intersection in Tokyo on Wednesday morning.
Mitoma was driving when his vehicle collided with a cyclist, a woman believed to be in her 40s. Emergency services responded, and the cyclist was taken to a hospital for further medical examinations after suffering bruising. Fortunately, initial reports indicated that her injuries were not considered life-threatening.
Authorities are now examining whether the Brighton forward may have committed a traffic offense.
Japanese broadcaster NHK reported that the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department has opened an investigation into the possibility of dangerous driving. Early accounts suggest Mitoma may have entered the intersection after mistakenly interpreting a pedestrian crossing signal as a traffic light for vehicles.
At this stage, investigators have not announced any formal charges.
Mitoma reportedly remained at the scene following the collision, checked on the cyclist’s condition, and cooperated fully with police officers as they carried out their initial inquiries.
His management company quickly released a public statement expressing regret over the incident.
The statement apologized to the injured woman, her family, and everyone affected while emphasizing that Mitoma deeply sympathized with the victim. It also confirmed that the footballer escaped without injury and intends to cooperate completely with authorities throughout the investigation.
The agency further stated that it would strengthen its road safety education and compliance measures to help prevent similar situations in the future.
