An investigation has been launched into the “unnatural death” of Professor Jason Arday at his home in south London, an inquest heard.
Professor Arday, 41, was found “unresponsive” by family members at his home in Battersea, south London, on the afternoon of August 14, London Inner South Coroner’s Court heard on Wednesday.
The 41-year-old resigned from his post as professor of sociology of education at the University of Cambridge earlier this month after he faced scrutiny over accusations of plagiarism.
Coroner opens investigation
Senior coroner Dr Julian Morris said: “The various reports have given me reason to suspect that Professor Arday died an unnatural death 12 days ago.
“It therefore follows that I must open an investigation. I will be setting out further directions for the coroner officer.”
A day before the inquest, Professor Arday’s family said they are “deeply moved by the extraordinary support” they have received after a fundraiser launched in his memory topped £224,000.
Fundraiser and family tribute
Sir Patrick Vernon, who played a leading role in the successful campaign to establish a national Windrush Day, set up a GoFundMe crowdfunding page following Professor Arday’s death to help support the academic’s family – with £224,474 raised through more than 7,900 donations.
In a message on the page on Tuesday, Professor Arday’s family said: “We are deeply moved by the extraordinary support we have received.
“The response to this appeal reflects the number of people whose lives were touched by our beloved Jason and the affection, respect and admiration in which he was held.
“Jason devoted his life and career to advancing education, widening participation, tackling race and inequality, and championing autism and neurodiversity.
“It means a great deal to us that so many people wish to celebrate his life and remember the difference he made to others.
“We are still grieving the loss of our beloved son, partner, father, brother, uncle and friend. We hope you will understand our need for time and space as we come to terms with this devastating loss and consider how best to move forward.”
The fundraiser was closed to donations on Monday at the family’s request after passing £224,000, with Sir Patrick saying the funds will go towards providing financial and practical support for the family as well as meeting funeral and memorial expenses.
Book release and plagiarism accusations
Professor Arday’s memoir, Great And Unfortunate Things, is due to be published in the UK on Thursday.
Simon & Schuster announced on Monday that his book will be released as planned, with his family saying: “It is only right that we honour his wishes.”
Accusations of plagiarism were initially made against Professor Arday, who became Cambridge’s youngest black professor in 2023, by academic Nathan Cofnas.
Mr Cofnas, who has advocated for “race realism”, was last week suspended from his post at Ghent University.
The Belgian university announced a preliminary disciplinary investigation has been launched after saying Professor Arday’s death “should prompt reflection”, adding the institution “opposes discrimination, hatred and racism”.
Last week, organisers said more than 30,000 people had attended a vigil for Professor Arday in Trafalgar Square, central London.
Speakers at the vigil criticised the press coverage of Professor Arday, with MP Diane Abbott saying he had been the subject of a “vicious” and “bitter” campaign by people who did not believe a black man should be a Cambridge professor.
For mental health support, contact the Samaritans on 116 123, email them at jo@samaritans.org or visit samaritans.org to find your nearest branch.
