Hanging death of Robert Kennedy’s wife, Mary, 52

Mrs Kennedy, 52, was discovered dead on Wednesday afternoon at the family’s property in New York State.

She had struggled with drug and alcohol charges in recent years.

Her husband, a prominent environmental lawyer and the son of former Senator Robert F Kennedy – assassinated in 1968 – had filed for a divorce in 2010. The two married in 1994 and had four children.

“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,” her family said in a statement.

“We deeply regret the death of our beloved sister Mary, whose radiant and creative spirit will be sorely missed.

“Our heart goes out to her children who she loved without reservation.”