An investigation has been launched into the death of Professor Jason Arday at his home in south London, an inquest at the London Inner South Coroner's Court was told on Wednesday. Professor Arday was found unresponsive by family members at his Battersea residence on the afternoon of August 14. Despite resuscitation efforts, he was pronounced dead.
The Metropolitan Police stated that the scene was not suspicious, but Senior Coroner Dr. Julian Morris indicated that initial investigations have provided reason to suspect Professor Arday died an unnatural death. The coroner has therefore opened an investigation and will set further directions for the coroner's officer.
Professor Arday, 41, had recently resigned from his position as professor of sociology of education at the University of Cambridge. His resignation came after he faced scrutiny over accusations of plagiarism. The academic became Cambridge's youngest black professor in 2023.
Members of Professor Arday's family were present at the inquest proceedings via videolink. The family has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support following his death. A crowdfunding page established in his memory by Sir Patrick Vernon, a prominent figure in the Windrush Day campaign, has raised over £224,000 through more than 7,900 donations. According to a statement from the family, these funds will go towards providing financial and practical support for the family, as well as covering funeral and memorial expenses.
In a message posted on the fundraising page, Professor Arday's family stated they were deeply moved by the support, reflecting the number of lives their son, partner, father, brother, uncle, and friend had touched. They highlighted his lifelong commitment to advancing education, widening participation, tackling race and inequality, and championing autism and neurodiversity. The family also requested time and space to grieve their loss.
The fundraising page was closed to donations on Monday at the family's request after exceeding its target. Professor Arday's memoir, "Great And Unfortunate Things," is scheduled for publication in the UK on Thursday, with Simon & Schuster confirming the release will proceed as planned, honoring the late professor's wishes.
The plagiarism accusations against Professor Arday were initially raised by academic Nathan Cofnas. Ghent University in Belgium has since announced a preliminary disciplinary investigation into Professor Arday's death, stating that the situation 'should prompt reflection' and that the institution opposes discrimination, hatred, and racism.