The former owner of the famous “Home Alone” house was discovered dead in a nature preserve in Illinois, with authorities suspecting suicide. His death followed shortly after he was indicted on charges related to child pornography.
John Abenshen, aged 79, was found at the Lake Forest Open Land Preserve around 6 PM on a Wednesday. Reports indicate that the initial ruling on the cause of death was “asphyxia consistent with self-inflicted injuries,” according to media sources.
An investigation into his death has been initiated by local police.
“This is considered an isolated incident, and there’s currently no threat to public safety,” stated the Lake County Coroner’s Office, as reported by local news outlets.
Abenshen was the long-time owner of the well-known red-brick Colonial that appeared in the beloved 1990 holiday film.
His family sold the five-bedroom home in Winnetka, a suburb of Chicago, back in 2012 for $1.585 million.
Earlier this month, the Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office had begun an investigation into Abenshen, suspecting him of possessing child pornography.
Authorities had received several cyber tips that claimed online accounts linked to Abenshen were involved in the possession, production, and distribution of child sexual abuse material.
A search warrant executed at his residence on April 16 led to the collection of electronic evidence.
Following that, Abenshen faced seven felony charges, including multiple counts of possession of child sexual abuse material.
He was conditionally released after a detention hearing held on April 17.
While living in the “Home Alone” house during filming, he later authored a memoir titled *Home but Alone No More*, reflecting on his experiences in the iconic setting.
He once mentioned that they converted a large master suite into an apartment to accommodate his presence during filming: “As long as I stayed out of sight of the camera, I was free to walk around and watch.”
The property has changed owners at least twice since Abenshen’s family sold it, with the latest buyers acquiring it for $5.5 million in January 2025. They plan to restore the home to reflect its memorable cinematic legacy, emphasizing warmth and family-like ambiance reminiscent of the film.
Project manager Scott Price commented on their vision: “We want to recapture that magic with great colors that made us feel at home.”
If you are experiencing thoughts of suicide or facing a mental health crisis, you can reach out to 1-888-NYC-WELL for confidential support in New York City, or contact the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 988 if you’re outside the area.
