QUESTIONS PERSIST IN DEATH OF U. S. JUDGE

When Sheila Abdus-Salaam, pictured, agreed to speak this month at an alumni gathering at Columbia Law School, it was business as usual for someone in demand as the first black woman to serve on New York’s highest court.

But six days before the event at her alma mater, Abdus-Salaam’s body was found floating in the Hudson River.

The New York Police Department said this week that it has found no signs of foul play, suggesting the 65-yearold may have killed herself. Her family and admirers insist that doesn’t add up.

“Sheila was one of the most rational, measured and intellectual folks that I’ve ever known,” said Keith Wright, a former state assemblyman, longtime friend and neighbour. “I don’t believe she killed herself.”

In a statement, AbdusSalaam’s family has disputed reports that she was battling depression.