NY estate planning probate law, distribution of inheritance

Can we still inherit our uncle??: My uncle lived in California for over 40 years he had businesses and lost , I know that he had about 400,000 or more in the bank before he got on social security and put all that money under one of his friends bank account because he was scared that his money will be taking or he might get jailed. He later died of a heart attack , and that money was still in his friends bank account . Is there anyway of inheriting that money because he didnt have any kids except for me and my brother but we lived in NY ?? Or what legal actions can we take against this man thats now spending that money overseas?? - Is this your question? Add additional information