Authorities in Santa Fe, New Mexico, are currently investigating the tragic deaths of Gene Hackman, an Oscar-winning actor, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa. Their bodies were discovered last Wednesday at their home, and investigators are now waiting for autopsy and carbon monoxide testing results to uncover the cause of their deaths. Both had seemingly passed away days, or possibly even weeks, before being found by the authorities.
Sheriff Adan Mendoza mentioned on NBC’s “Today” show that their private lifestyle presents challenges in determining when the couple was last seen or heard from. The sheriff noted that conclusive results from the autopsy and toxicology tests might take some time to be available.
The 95-year-old Hackman was found in the entryway of their house, while his 65-year-old wife, Arakawa, was discovered in the bathroom. Nearby, a deceased German shepherd was located in a kennel. According to details mentioned in a search warrant, an open prescription bottle and pills were visible on a countertop. Medical records, along with an array of medications, including those for high blood pressure, chest pain, and thyroid treatment, were collected by the authorities.
Fortunately, there was no initial evidence of foul play. Despite this, the detectives expressed concerns due to the suspicious nature of the deaths, prompting a comprehensive investigation. Although no gas leaks were found near the residence, a detective noted that poisoning signs might not always be apparent. A space heater was positioned near Arakawa, possibly falling over when she collapsed.
The grim discovery was made by a maintenance worker who was conducting a routine check at the property. During a 911 call, the worker noted the difficulty in entering the house but could see Arakawa lying on the floor through a window.
The worker, alongside another co-worker, mentioned that their previous encounter with the homeowners occurred around two weeks before the discovery. There was conflicting information about the accessibility of the property’s doors—some were locked, some unlocked, with a rear door left ajar, allowing two surviving dogs to move in and out.
Gene Hackman, celebrated as one of the finest actors of his time, graced the screen in numerous roles that spanned genres like drama, comedy, and action from the 1960s until he retired in the early 2000s. Notably, he garnered five Oscar nominations, winning the award for Best Actor in 1972 for “The French Connection,” and Best Supporting Actor two decades later for “Unforgiven.”
Hackman met Arakawa, a pianist, in the 1980s in California. Eventually, they settled in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Their beautiful home, located in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, offered serene views. In his early years in New Mexico, Hackman actively participated in local cultural activities, including serving on the board of trustees for the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum.
In recent years, however, Hackman maintained a low profile, appearing infrequently in public events. He had three children from an earlier marriage, while he and Arakawa, though without children, were known for their love of German shepherds.
