This week the story of Victoria Siegel’s tragic death has been unfolding.
The 18-year-old daughter of David and Jackie Siegel – who appeared in the 2012 documentary Queen of Versailles – was found unresponsive in her family’s home on June 6.
There has been a lot of speculation about her death. But the chatter about Jackie has briefly paused as many question why her mother was taking pictures of Jackie’s casket.
Using her gold cell phone and holding a pink and black zebra-striped cup, she took pictures as she said goodbye to her daughter.
Jackie, a mother of eight, told her Facebook followers that Jackie was a victim of cyberbullying: “The ex-girlfriend of Victoria’s boyfriend used his phone to send cruel and hateful text messages using the boyfriend’s phone.”
She added, “These messages were sent early on the morning of Victoria’s death. These messages were clearly intended to hurt Victoria and while we cannot be sure [the messages] may have affected her emotional state at a time when she was emotionally vulnerable.”
After Jackie’s death, her family released a statement confirming that Victoria was struggling with substance abuse.
“Victoria had a history of seizures and was prescribed medication for this condition,” the statement said.
“Unfortunately she became dependent and struggled with this condition. She voluntarily underwent rehabilitation and was working hard to address this problem.”
At first, it might seem bizarre that Jackie was taking pictures at the funeral. But she is mourning the loss of her daughter.
She has every right to grieve how she wants. And if she wants a final picture of her daughter, so be it.