5 Key Points Summary: Gene Hackman’s Death
- Police body cam footage reveals the discovery of Gene Hackman and wife Betsy Arakawa’s bodies.
- Betsy was found first, with a live dog lying beside her in their New Mexico home.
- Gene was later discovered near the kitchen; both deaths occurred days apart.
- Their home was in disarray, with rodent infestations and dead animals reported.
- Gene Hackman died from heart disease and Alzheimer’s; Betsy succumbed to hantavirus.
Gene Hackman Death: Police Release Haunting Body Cam Video
New Mexico authorities have released disturbing body cam footage from the investigation into the death of legendary actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa. The video captures officers entering the couple’s Santa Fe home, where they found both bodies in shocking conditions.
Officers Search for Gene and Betsy
The video, obtained by TMZ, shows officers moving through the house cautiously.
Inside, they discovered Betsy’s body first. She was lying on the floor near a locked door, with one of their dogs alive and lying beside her.
Soon after, police found Gene’s body closer to the kitchen area.
Another of the couple’s dogs was discovered dead inside a crate. According to police, the animal had been confined after a recent vet visit.
Home in Chaos, Rodents Everywhere
The interior of the home was in complete disarray.
An inspection by the New Mexico Department of Public Health confirmed the property was heavily infested with rodents. Officials found dead pests and nests scattered throughout the house and in eight detached outbuildings.
Authorities say the conditions likely contributed to Betsy’s cause of death.
Cause of Death Confirmed
According to the medical examiner, Betsy Arakawa died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome.
This rare but deadly illness is often spread through contact with infected rodent droppings or urine.
Gene Hackman died just a few days later, around February 17 or 18.
Doctors attributed his death to heart disease and advanced Alzheimer’s disease.
Dog Stayed by Betsy’s Side
The most heartbreaking moment in the footage came when officers found one of the family’s dogs lying quietly beside Betsy’s body.
Despite the chaos and conditions, the loyal animal refused to leave her side.
Private Memorial Held for the Couple
Family members held a private memorial earlier this month to honor both Gene and Betsy.
The couple shared a long life together out of the spotlight. Gene, a two-time Academy Award winner, had largely retired from acting in recent years.
They were last seen in public together in March 2024.
Hollywood Reacts to Gene Hackman Death
News of the Gene Hackman death sparked an outpouring of tributes from fellow actors and fans around the world.
Hackman, known for roles in “The French Connection” and “Unforgiven,” had built a reputation as one of Hollywood’s most intense and respected performers.
Questions Remain After Tragic Ending
While the medical causes of death have been confirmed, questions remain about how long the couple was left unattended in such dangerous conditions.
Police have not indicated foul play, but the tragic scene raises serious concerns about isolation and elder care.
The footage continues to spark conversation about how Hollywood legends live — and die — far from the spotlight.
