Liu Qiang, a representative of Beijing Language and Culture University (BLCU) at Webster University's Confucius Institute, died on Tuesday, BLCU said in a statement on Sunday.

Liu served as a representative at the institute – located in Webster Groves, Missouri, U.S. – since January 2019.

"At 11:45 p.m. BJT on October 7, we received news of Liu's death from Webster University's Confucius Institute. We are deeply saddened by the death of Liu and have expressed condolences to his family members," BLCU said, adding that it is paying high attention to the case and had set up a special work group to follow the case.

BLCU officials are keeping close contact with the Chinese consulate-general and Webster University and urged U.S. police to inform them of investigation results.

The statement added that the case is under investigation and urged the public to refrain from re-posting or further circulating unsubstantiated information.