OJ's Sister Dies of Mystery Illness

OJ Simpson’s younger sister died of a mysterious illness yesterday in Sacramento, the Bee reports. Carmelita Durio had been ill since she collapsed in court following her brother’s robbery conviction in October, and none of six specialists she consulted were able to diagnose what plagued the 60-year-old. “Her body just broke down,” says brother Melvin Simpson.

Despite the timing, Melvin said he didn’t think stress from the trial caused Durio’s death. “Bottom line is, it isn’t my brother’s fault,” he said. Durio was present every day at both of OJ’s trials, and Melvin credits her with keeping the family united. One of OJ’s daughters broke the news to the convict. “It’s breaking him up,” said Melvin. (More OJ Simpson stories.)