In a shocking turn of events, legendary actor Gene Hackman, his wife Betsy Arakawa, and their beloved dog were found dead in their $3.8 million Santa Fe home, leaving investigators and the community searching for answers. Authorities discovered the bodies amid signs of decomposition, raising questions about the circumstances surrounding their deaths.
Initial findings from the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office indicate no external injuries or signs of foul play. Autopsies were conducted on Thursday morning, with results pending, including toxicology reports that may shed light on the tragic situation. Leslie Hackman, one of Gene’s three 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥ren, speculated that a carbon monoxide leak could have been a factor, but tests conducted by the Santa Fe City Fire Department and the New Mexico Gas Company revealed no hazardous conditions in the home.
The couple, aged 95 and 64, were reportedly found in a state of partial mummification, likely due to the dry air of the New Mexico desert climate. Gene was discovered in a mudroom near the kitchen, with his sunglasses and cane on the floor, while Betsy was found in the bathroom with an open bottle of prescription pills nearby. Investigators noted that the bodies had been in the home for at least a day, with some fears they could have been deceased for up to two weeks.
Santa Fe Mayor Alan Weber paid tribute to Hackman, describing him as a gracious figure who seamlessly blended into the community despite his global fame. Leslie Hackman expressed that the family is still grappling with the sudden loss, emphasizing her father’s good health prior to his death and his active lifestyle, which included Pilates and yoga.
With autopsy results expected in four to six weeks, the investigation remains open as the community reflects on the contributions of the beloved actor and his wife. The couple had been married for over 34 years, and Leslie credited Betsy for playing a vital role in Gene’s life and health. As the search for answers continues, the legacy of Gene Hackman endures in the hearts of those who admired him.
