Jason Arday, ex-Cambridge professor found dead amid plagiarism scandal: Cause of death revealed?

Jason Arday, the former Cambridge professor, was found dead on Friday in the midst of a plagiarism controversy which led to his resignation from the British institute.

The shocking announcement of Arday came a week later when the University of Cambridge launched an investigation into the high-profile plagiarism scandal that raised the disturbing concerns of racism.

He was questioned about the plagiarised work and some of his achievements, but Arday had denied such allegations.

According to the reports of the capital’s Metropolitan Police Service, the 41-year-old was found unresponsive at a residence in south London. Initially the police did not confirm the identity of the deceased at the time of discovery.

“At this time his death is being treated as unexpected, but is not believed to be suspicious,” the police statement said. However, the accurate cause of death has not been confirmed yet.

Arday’s family also issued a heartbreaking statement, citing, “they were in shock to have lost this amazing father, partner, brother, uncle and son.”

“The campaign of misinformation was too much for Jason, who was a gentle man and who always wanted to see the best in everyone,” the family said, adding that for three years Arday was “subjected to a campaign of sustained abuse ... by those who would leave no stone unturned in their quest to undermine him.”

Cambridge University's top administrator, Vice-Chancellor Deborah Prentice, said in a brief statement, “We are desperately saddened to hear this tragic news and our heartfelt sympathies go to Jason Arday’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.”

Stepping down from his role as a professor of sociology of education, Arday released a statement expressing that "the relentless accusations, speculation and public commentary have taken a profound toll on me and on those I love."

He emphasized that his resignation should not "be mistaken for an acceptance of the narratives that have surrounded me." While denying allegations of plagiarism, he acknowledged making certain errors during the completion of his doctorate.