LOS ANGELES, CA (Catholic Online) - "She was deeply troubled, abusing alcohol and prescription meds," a close family friend told reporters. "She had cause. She was used up and tossed away by Bobby. That was awful."

The death is under investigation with the Westchester Medical Examiner's Office.

Bedford police responded to a report of a "possible unattended death" - meaning there were no witnesses - at the estate. Mary Kennedy was cut her down while authorities tried to revive her. She was found by a housekeeper.

Mary was found "inside an out-building on that property," police said in a statement. Mary left behind a note, and none of her children were home at the time, officials say.

An undisclosed witness, who had spoken to her prior to her death, said that "Mary said she was facing financial ruin, with American Express coming after her hard for an outstanding debt, along with several other creditors. In addition, she was concerned that Robert was about to substantially reduce the amount of financial support he gave her and she was terrified she would have to file for bankruptcy and lose her home."

Long plagued with personal misfortune, the Kennedy family dealt stoically with the latest in the long line of shocking deaths.

"We deeply regret the death of our beloved sister Mary, whose radiant and creative spirit will be sorely missed by those who loved her," the family said in a statement.

"Our heart goes out to her children, who she loved without reservation. We have no further comment at this time."

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the third of 11 children of former U.S. Sen., Attorney General and presidential candidate Robert Francis Kennedy, he married Mary Richardson in 1994, one month after his first marriage ended following 12 years.

A family friend said Mary had known the Kennedy clan long before she married Bobby. "She had grown up with the Kennedy family, having been Kerry's best friend since they were teenagers," the friend said.

The marriage broke down amid reports of her addiction and rumors of his involvement with other women.

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