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Santa Fe Police Release Details in Hackman Deaths, Citing Legal Obligation
Santa Fe, NM – Newly released police photos and bodycam footage offer a somber glimpse into the final days of Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, who were found deceased in their New Mexico home in February. The Santa Fe Police Department released the materials on Wednesday, April 16th, following a request under the New Mexico Inspection of Public Records Act (IPRA).
While the official causes of death were determined to be hantavirus pulmonary syndrome for Mrs. Arakawa and heart disease complicated by Alzheimer’s disease for Mr.
Hackman, some details remain unclear. Bodycam footage revealed a bed with wrinkled sheets, small bloodstains, and a soiled bandage, the source of which is currently unknown.
Investigators believe Mrs. Arakawa likely passed away on February 12th.
Her internet search history revealed searches related to flu-like symptoms, nosebleeds, and Covid-19, and she had purchased oxygen tanks online. Emails also indicate she cancelled a massage appointment, citing “flu/cold-like symptoms” for Mr.
Hackman, despite him testing negative for Covid-19. Mr.
Hackman’s pacemaker data suggests he passed away around February 18th. His advanced Alzheimer’s may have prevented him from realizing his wife had passed or from seeking help.
The release of the materials comes despite the family’s request for privacy. Santa Fe County manager Gregory S.
Shaffer explained the County’s difficult position, stating that withholding the records could have resulted in lawsuits and penalties under IPRA. He expressed sympathy for the family while emphasizing the County’s legal obligation to comply with the public records law.