An investigation has been launched into the death of Professor Jason Arday at his south London home, the London Inner South Coroner's Court was informed during an inquest hearing.
Professor Arday, 41, was discovered unresponsive by family members at his residence in Battersea on the afternoon of August 14. Despite resuscitation attempts, he was pronounced dead. The Metropolitan Police stated that the circumstances of his death were not considered suspicious, according to the inquest proceedings.
Senior coroner Dr. Julian Morris indicated that initial inquiries, pending further reports, have led him to suspect that Professor Arday died an "unnatural death." As a result, an investigation is being opened, and directions will be provided to the coroner's officer.
Family members of Professor Arday observed the inquest proceedings via video link. The family recently stated they were "deeply moved by the extraordinary support" received after a crowdfunding campaign established in his memory surpassed £224,000. Sir Patrick Vernon initiated the GoFundMe page to support the academic's family, gathering over £224,000 from more than 7,900 donations.
In a statement shared on the fundraising page, Professor Arday's family expressed their gratitude for the support, noting that it reflected the many lives he touched. They highlighted his dedication to advancing education, widening participation, addressing race and inequality, and advocating for autism and neurodiversity. The family also conveyed their need for time and space to grieve their loss.
The crowdfunding page was closed to further donations at the family's request after reaching its target. Sir Patrick Vernon stated the funds will assist the family with financial and practical needs, as well as funeral and memorial expenses.
Professor Arday had earlier in August resigned from his position as professor of sociology of education at the University of Cambridge. This followed intense scrutiny over allegations of plagiarism. His memoir, "Great And Unfortunate Things," is scheduled for publication on Thursday, and his family confirmed it would be released as planned to honor his wishes.
The plagiarism accusations were initially raised by academic Nathan Cofnas. Ghent University in Belgium, where Cofnas is affiliated, announced it had launched a preliminary disciplinary investigation into the matter, stating that Professor Arday's death should prompt reflection and that the institution opposes discrimination, hatred, and racism.