LOS ANGELES — The elderly man told his neighbors he was a Rothschild — a member of the prominent European family whose collective fortune is worth billions of dollars. He certainly appeared to have some of the trappings of a descendant of the esteemed bankers, including a classic car collection featuring Ferraris and Jaguars.
But in the days after William de Rothschild, 87, was found dead at his fire-damaged Laurel Canyon home last week, questions surfaced about his identity. He was not born with that name and does not appear in the official genealogy maintained in the archive of the Rothschilds.
The investigation into the circumstances of his death is ongoing, but authorities have not yet released any information about the cause of the fire or whether it was suspicious.
The man’s neighbors said he was a quiet and reclusive individual who kept to himself, but they were shocked by the revelation that he was not who he claimed to be.
“I had no idea,” said one neighbor, who asked not to be named. “He seemed like a nice guy, but I guess you never really know someone.”
The Rothschild family is one of the most prominent and wealthy families in Europe, with a history dating back to the 12th century. The family’s fortune was built on banking and finance, and they have been involved in numerous business and philanthropic ventures over the years.
Despite the family’s wealth and influence, they are not immune to controversy. In recent years, the family has faced criticism over their tax practices and their involvement in various business dealings.
The investigation into the man’s identity and the circumstances of his death is ongoing, and authorities are working to determine whether he was involved in any illegal activities.
In the meantime, the man’s neighbors are left to wonder how someone could pose as a member of such a prominent family and live a life of luxury without anyone suspecting a thing.
“It’s just crazy,” said another neighbor. “I guess you never know what’s going on behind closed doors.”
