Mary Kennedy dead at 52. The estranged wife of Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. — the couple filed for divorce in 2010 after 16 years of marriage — apparently hanged herself in what’s been described as an “out-building” behind her Westchester County home on Wednesday. According to reports, Mary had a history of drug and alcohol problems, though her suicide is rumored to have been linked to the financial devastation she feared following her the couple’s divorce.
Although details surrounding her death are few and far between at the moment, The New York Post claims that a note was left at the scene of her death.
The Westchester County coroner’s office has refused to officially comment on the cause of death until an autopsy has been performed. However, officials have stated that they are currently investigating what they call an “unattended death”. The autopsy is currently scheduled for sometime today (May 17th).
“Mary was a genius at friendship, a tremendously gifted architect and a pioneer and relentless advocate of green design who enhanced her cutting edge, energy efficient creations with exquisite taste and style,” the Kennedy family said in a statement issued by Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.’s chief of staff.
Mary Kennedy’s family has also released a statement following the news of her passing, which reads, “We deeply regret the death of our beloved sister Mary, whose radiant and creative spirit will be sorely missed by those who loved her. Our heart goes out to her children who she loved without reservation. We have no further comment at this time.”
Friends and family members aren’t the only ones reacting to the news. You can find an assortment of Twitter reactions to Mary Kennedy’s death below. If you’d like to learn more about her untimely passing, swing by Famous Dead.
@rongalella: Mary Richardson Kennedy, RFK JR’s estranged wife has reportedly committed suicide http://t.co/UP9WPJZ0