Inquest to Open into Death of Professor Jason Arday Amid Plagiarism Claims
Family expresses gratitude for outpouring of support as memoir publication proceeds despite ongoing scrutiny.
Callum Smith
Professor Jason Arday was found unresponsive at his Battersea home on August 14.
Dr. Julian Morris confirmed an investigation's opening, stating, "The various reports have given me reason to suspect that Professor Arday died an unnatural death 12 days ago."
Dr. Morris added, "It therefore follows that I must open an investigation. I will be setting out further directions for the coroner officer."
More than 30,000 people attended a vigil in Trafalgar Square to pay tribute to Professor Arday. A fundraiser launched in his memory has topped £224,000.
We are deeply moved by the extraordinary support we have received.
A crowdfunding appeal organized by Sir Patrick Vernon reportedly raised the sum for the academic's family. Professor Arday’s family expressed profound gratitude, stating, "We are deeply moved by the extraordinary support we have received."
They added, "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." His family confirmed his memoir, Great And Unfortunate Things, will still be published as planned.
The memoir is due for publication on Thursday by Simon & Schuster, with his family stating, "It is only right that we honour his wishes." Professor Arday’s family highlighted his dedication, noting, "Jason devoted his life and career to advancing education, widening participation, tackling race and inequality, and championing autism and neurodiversity."
They shared, "It means a great deal to us that so many people wish to celebrate his life and remember the difference he made to others." Professor Arday faced intense scrutiny over accusations of plagiarism, reportedly resigning amid these allegations.
He was initially accused of plagiarizing another academic’s work for his PhD thesis, though he denied the accusations and admitted errors in his work. His family claims a "campaign of misinformation" was waged against him, further alleging the press has waged a "campaign of harassment" against Jason Arday and his family.
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.
They stated the campaign of misinformation was too much for Jason, who was a gentle man and always wanted to see the best in everyone. An investigation by Liverpool John Moores University earlier this year reportedly upheld its decision to award Jason Arday a PhD.
Nathan Cofnas, who initially made accusations of plagiarism against Professor Arday, has been suspended from his post at Ghent University. Professor Arday’s family requested privacy during this difficult time, stating, "We are still grieving the loss of our beloved son, partner, father, brother, uncle and friend."
They continued, "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."