O.J. Simpson’s final days were marked by relaxation and a battle with prostate cancer. Simpson’s longtime attorney, Malcolm LaVergne, recounted their last discussion before Easter at Simpson’s leased home southwest of the Las Vegas Strip. Simpson was enjoying a beer on the couch while watching TV. A week later, on April 5, Simpson’s health took a turn for the worse. Simpson passed away on April 10 at the age of 76.
Simpson’s death sparked questions about his estate and the long-standing judgment owed to the families of his slain ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and Ronald Goldman. LaVergne, who is handling Simpson’s estate, explained that Simpson’s four children are the only beneficiaries of his estate. The value of the estate and details of a family trust have not yet been disclosed.
Simpson’s wish was to be cremated, and no immediate plans for a public memorial have been announced. LaVergne stated that Simpson’s body will not be studied for chronic brain trauma resulting from his NFL career.
Simpson’s legacy remains controversial, as he was acquitted of criminal charges for the murders of his ex-wife and Goldman in the 1996 “trial of the century,” but was found liable for their deaths in a 1997 civil court case. In a 2007 armed robbery case in Las Vegas, Simpson was convicted and served nine years in prison.
Attorney David Cook, representing the Goldman family, said the judgment owed today, including unpaid interest, is more than $114 million. Cook plans to continue fighting for the family’s settlement. LaVergne acknowledged the Goldmans may not receive much from Simpson’s assets, as the estate might not amount to the owed judgment.
