Former US presidential candidate and Utah senator Mitt Romney has said his family is “heartbroken” after his sister-in-law, Carrie Elizabeth Romney, was found dead near a shopping complex in Los Angeles County.
Romney Family in Shock
In a statement to People magazine on Monday, Romney described Carrie as a woman who “brought warmth and love to all our lives,” adding that her sudden death has left the family devastated. “We ask for privacy during this difficult time,” he said.
Body Discovered Near Shopping Mall
Authorities confirmed that Carrie, 64, was discovered shortly after 8:30 p.m. on Friday near a parking garage in Valencia, a suburban community north of Los Angeles.
Vehicle Found in Adjacent Parking Structure
Her car was located in a nearby parking facility connected to the Hyatt Regency Hotel. Police sealed off the area as forensic teams worked through the night to gather evidence.
Cause of Death Not Yet Determined
Investigators said it remains unclear whether she “jumped or fell” from the multi-storey structure or another nearby building. “At this stage, we are keeping all possibilities open,” said Deputy Brenda Serna of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
Medical Examiner Defers Cause Pending Tests
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed Carrie’s death but listed her cause as “deferred,” pending the outcome of toxicology and forensic examinations. Her body has since been released to her family.
No Indication of Foul Play
Detectives told NBC Los Angeles that foul play does not appear to be involved, though the inquiry remains active. The scene has been described as “non-criminal” at this stage, but investigators are awaiting lab results before concluding.
Married to Romney’s Older Brother
Carrie was married to Mitt Romney’s 81-year-old brother, George Scott Romney, a Michigan-based attorney and father of former Republican National Committee chair Ronna McDaniel.
Divorce Filing Weeks Before Death
Court filings reviewed by Daily Mail show that Scott Romney filed for divorce on June 10, citing “irreconcilable differences” after eight years of marriage. The documents stated that most assets were obtained before their 2016 wedding.
Legal Dispute Over Spousal Support
Carrie reportedly sought spousal maintenance, which Scott opposed, according to the same filings. He also asked the court to restore her maiden name, Carrie Elizabeth Dimas.
A Private and Low-Profile Couple
The couple’s relationship remained largely out of the public eye. Since 2012, they had rarely been seen at public events or on social media, opting for a quieter life away from political circles.
Third Marriage for Scott Romney
The divorce would have marked the end of Scott Romney’s third marriage. Despite personal challenges, he continues his legal career with Honigman Miller Schwartz and Cohn, and serves on several company boards, including Compuware Corporation.
Prominent Political Dynasty
The Romney family has long played an influential role in American politics. Mitt Romney rose to national prominence as the 2012 Republican presidential nominee and has since served as a US senator known for his independent positions.
Romney Known for Defying Party Line
During Donald Trump’s first impeachment trial in 2020, Romney became the only Republican senator to vote for conviction, earning both praise and criticism for putting “country before party.”
Authorities Continue to Examine Circumstances
Investigators in Los Angeles say they are awaiting final autopsy results before ruling on the manner of death. “This is still an active case,” a sheriff’s spokesperson told local reporters.
Tributes Pour In
Messages of sympathy have begun appearing on social media, with supporters and friends describing Carrie as “gracious” and “deeply kind.” Others said her loss was “a tragedy for the entire Romney family.”
Family Requests Privacy Amid Grief
The Romneys have not issued any further statements, but family representatives said they are focused on supporting each other as they await answers from the ongoing investigation.
M10News US Desk | Contact: usdesk@m10news.com
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