Yes - no... Please tell me this is just a joke!
This person was so dedicated to their passion...
If the Horn of the Abyss team closes the project after the release of the Factory, it will be unfair to the deceased.
Unfortunately, this is a fact, confirmed by the Professor's family. I don't think it would be ethical to try to find out the details; it's too difficult. It's an irreplaceable loss, and the team needs time to recover. But I'm sure that, motivated by and with respect for the legend, the community will release 1.7.0 with the Factory. What will happen next is unclear; a new leader is needed, but the question is whether one can be found.