A 49-year-old man arrested in connection with the death of Prof Steven Rawlings has been released on police bail until Wednesday, April 18.

Detectives launched a murder inquiry after Prof Rawlings, 50, an astrophysicist from Oxford University’s St Peter’s College, was found dying at the home of mathematician Dr Devinder Sivia, in Laurel Drive, Southmoor, near Abingdon, on Wednesday night.

Despite attempts by paramedics, the police and the public to revive Prof Rawlings he was pronounced dead.

The post-mortem examination carried out yesterday proved inconclusive and further tests will be undertaken in the next few weeks.

Det Supt Rob Mason, of Thames Valley Police Major Crime Unit, said: “This is a tragic incident and our investigations are ongoing to establish the cause of death.

“A substantial amount of information is already in the public domain and we can confirm that the two individuals involved have been friends for over 30 years.

“I would emphasise that the police are investigating all potential circumstances that could have led to his death.

“We are mindful that ultimately the death may be a matter for a coroner’s inquest rather than a criminal court and I would ask for patience from both the media and the public while we continue our investigation.

“Due to the post-mortem examination results proving inconclusive and further examinations being required, this has necessitated a lengthy bail date."