AN Oxford academic has today been told by police he will not face charges over the death of his best friend.

Dr Devinder Sivia, 49, was arrested on suspicion of murder following the death of Professor Steven Rawlings in Southmoor in January.

Dr Sivia, a St John’s College mathematician, has been on police bail while detectives carried out their enquiries, but today was told he would face no charges.

The case is now being handed over to Oxfordshire coroner Nicholas Gardiner to conduct an inquest.

Prof Rawlings, a 50-year-old astrophysicist, was visiting Dr Sivia's home in Laurel Drive when there was an incident between the two men.

Prof Rawlings collapsed and, despite the attempts of paramedics, he died.

A post mortem examination proved inconclusive.

Prof Rawlings had previously suffered psychiatric problems.

Within two days, Prof Rawlings wife Linda had said she did not believe there was any foul play involved.

She added today: "I am satisfied with the decision made by the Crown Prosecution Service that there will be no criminal charges brought. I have nothing further to say on this matter."

Announcing the decision, Detective Superintendent Rob Mason, from Thames Valley Police's major crime unit, said: “It is normal process for us to submit a file to the Crown Prosecution Service for consideration following an investigation such as this.

“We fully support and respect the decision made by the CPS to take no further action. The circumstances of Professor Rawlings’ death will now by fully examined at a future Coroner’s Court hearing.

“Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of Professor Rawlings at this time.”

Baljit Ubhey, the chief crown prosecutor for Thames and Chiltern CPS said: "Following enquiries by Thames Valley Police I have concluded in accordance with the Code for Crown Prosecutors that there is insufficient evidence to put before a court.

“Professor Steven Rawlings died at the Oxfordshire home of a friend on Wednesday, 11 January 2012. A post mortem examination was conducted, but was inconclusive and further tests were required.

“A 49-year-old man was arrested, interviewed and bailed pending further enquiries. “I received a file from Thames Valley Police, have considered all the evidence, and have decided that the 49-year-old man will not face any charges in relation to the death of Steven Rawlings.

“I extend my sincere sympathies to Mrs Rawlings for the death of her husband.

“An inquest will take place in due course.”