Gene Hackman, the renowned Oscar-winning actor famous for his roles in films like The French Connection and The Conversation, and his wife, classical pianist Betsy Arakawa, were discovered dead in their home in Santa Fe, New Mexico, on Wednesday, after a maintenance worker called emergency services. According to the sheriff’s office, the couple and one of their dogs had likely been dead for approximately 10 days before their bodies were found. Authorities have not yet established a definitive cause of death, but the circumstances surrounding the deaths are considered suspicious enough to require further investigation.
Discovery of the Bodies
The bodies of Hackman, 95, and Arakawa, 65, were found in different rooms of the home, and their deaths are believed to have occurred at least 10 days before their discovery. A German Shepherd dog belonging to the couple was also found dead in a bathroom closet near Arakawa. According to Sheriff Adan Mendoza, the couple appeared to have been “dead for quite a while,” with Arakawa’s body showing signs of “decomposition” and “mummification” in her hands and feet, while Hackman’s remains displayed similar signs of death.
The bodies were found after a maintenance worker made a routine visit to the property and noticed the front door open. Upon entering, the worker discovered the bodies and immediately called emergency services. In an emotional 911 call obtained by the BBC, the worker described the scene, noting that both bodies appeared to have been deceased for an extended period.
The Cause of Death
As of now, authorities have not released an official cause of death for either Hackman or Arakawa. There were no apparent signs of injury on the bodies, and an initial test for carbon monoxide poisoning came back negative. The sheriff’s office confirmed there was no gas leak in the area, and the fire department detected no sign of carbon monoxide in the home. Authorities also searched for any indication of foul play but found no forced entry or signs of a struggle.
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A portable heater was found near Arakawa’s body, and a detective suggested that it could have been brought down if she had collapsed suddenly. Near Arakawa’s body, a prescription bottle and scattered pills were found on the bathroom countertop, which were common medications for thyroid and high blood pressure. This has raised further questions about the couple’s health and whether the deaths were related to natural causes or something more sinister.
The authorities have requested autopsies and toxicology tests for both Hackman and Arakawa. However, they have indicated that the results may not be available for several months.
Why the Deaths Are Considered Suspicious
While there are no signs of forced entry or robbery, the discovery of an open front door, combined with the couple’s bodies being in a state of significant decomposition, has led to the deaths being labeled “suspicious.” Sheriff Mendoza said there was no indication of a struggle or anything unusual inside the house, but the open door added a layer of concern.
The couple had not been seen in person by their maintenance workers for about two weeks, although they had communicated with them via phone and text. It remains unclear whether the two had passed away around the same time or whether one had died before the other. While the sheriff’s office continues its investigation, authorities have not ruled out the possibility of foul play and are looking into the timeline of their deaths.
The Timeline of Events
Hackman’s pacemaker, which was still registering activity on February 17, has provided some insight into the timing of his death. This suggests that Hackman’s death occurred on or around that date, which was 10 days before the bodies were found. Police have stated that they do not know who died first, Hackman or Arakawa, and investigations are ongoing.
Health of the Couple
Hackman’s daughter, Leslie Anne Hackman, spoke about her father’s health in an interview, revealing that despite his advanced age, the actor had been in excellent physical condition. She said her father had kept a rigorous fitness regimen, regularly practicing Pilates and yoga several times a week, and had not undergone any major surgeries recently.
Leslie Anne also praised Arakawa for her dedication to Hackman’s health, stating that her father’s wife had always ensured that he remained active and in good health. The couple had been married for over 30 years, and Leslie described their relationship as one of deep love and care.
Investigations Continue
At this stage, authorities are working to gather more information to piece together the exact events that led to the deaths of Hackman and Arakawa. Their deaths, while mysterious, have captured the attention of both the public and the media, especially as Hackman is one of Hollywood’s most celebrated and respected actors. The investigation into their deaths remains open, and officials have stated that they will continue to examine all leads and await the results of the ongoing autopsies and toxicology tests.
Gene Hackman’s career has spanned decades, and his passing marks the end of an era for many fans of classic Hollywood. As authorities work to uncover the truth behind the deaths, tributes continue to pour in from fans and fellow celebrities alike. The mystery surrounding the deaths of Hackman and his wife only deepens, as people wait for answers to the many questions that still remain.
