A University of North Carolina Wilmington professor who was set to retire in August after a history of posting controversial social media comments has been found dead in his home, according to reports.

Mike Adams, 55, a tenured criminology professor, was found dead alone in his home when deputies with the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office conducted a welfare check about 2 p.m. Thursday, police spokesman Lt. Jerry Brewer told CNN.

Police are investigating at his house on Windsong Road, but did not release any other details, according to the News & Observer. Adams’ family and the university have been notified, Brewer said.

“It is with sadness that we share the news that the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office is conducting a death investigation involving Dr. Mike Adams, professor of criminology. Please keep his friends and loved ones in your thoughts,” the university said in a statement.

Adams had reached a settlement agreement with the university for more than $500,000 and was set to retire on Aug. 1, according to the news outlet.