Additional Coverage:
- Gene Hackman and his wife’s death investigated as ‘suspicious’ after door was left open (irishstar.com)
Santa Fe, NM – Authorities are investigating the deaths of legendary actor Gene Hackman, 92, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 63, as suspicious. The couple were found deceased in their New Mexico home on Wednesday. While no evidence of foul play has been confirmed, the cause of death remains undetermined.
According to a search warrant affidavit, deputies arrived at the scene to find the front door of the residence open and unsecured. Inside, they discovered a complex and concerning scene: one dog running loose, another near Ms.
Arakawa’s body, and a third deceased dog in a nearby bathroom closet. A displaced space heater, an open pill bottle with scattered pills near Ms.
Arakawa, and Mr. Hackman in a separate room added to the unsettling circumstances.
No gas leak was detected.
The warrant further details observations made by a detective who noted signs of bloating and mummification on Ms. Arakawa’s remains, suggesting she may have died prior to the discovery of the bodies.
Mr. Hackman’s daughter, Elizabeth Jean Hackman, had previously speculated about the possibility of toxic fume or carbon monoxide inhalation, though official findings are still pending. The investigation is ongoing.