My Brother Died and left no will

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? New York

My brother died recently and left no will that we know of. A friend of his found out that he died before his family did and presented herself and his only surving relative and had him cremated. She also took everything he owned out of his apartment and she refuses to return his items. What can I do?

have you tried calling the police?

has anybody filed for probate of his estate? Whomever is named executor or administrator would have more specific control over the situation than just a relative in general.