The tragic deaths of actor Gene Hackman, his wife Betsy Arakawa, and their dog have left many questions unanswered.
The couple, aged 95 and 64, were found inside their $3.8 million home in Santa Fe, New Mexico, leading to widespread speculation about how they passed away.
The authorities have conducted autopsies, which were completed early on Thursday morning, but no external signs of trauma were found on either of the victims.
Preliminary Findings and Toxicology Reports Pending
While investigators have ruled out visible injuries, they are still waiting for the results of toxicology reports to shed light on the cause of death.
Gene’s daughter, Leslie Anne Hackman, had previously suggested to DailyMail.com that they might have died from inhaling toxic fumes, possibly from a carbon monoxide leak.
However, after thorough testing by Santa Fe City Fire personnel and the New Mexico Gas Company, no carbon monoxide or other dangerous elements were detected in the home.
Authorities confirmed that the gas lines and pipes around the property were safe.
No Evidence of Foul Play or External Trauma
Sheriff Adan Mendoza released a statement on Thursday, confirming that initial findings showed no signs of external trauma or foul play.
Despite the ongoing investigation, he stated that the cause of death has not been determined, and they are still awaiting the final autopsy and toxicology reports.
The investigation remains open, as officials work to piece together what happened.
A Tribute to Gene Hackman from Santa Fe’s Mayor
Santa Fe Mayor Alan Webber expressed his condolences, praising Gene Hackman as a “gracious, friendly” celebrity who was beloved by the community. “He fit in, in a good way,” Webber said.
“These are two people who had huge talent and global reputations, but in Santa Fe, they were just part of the community.”
The mayor’s tribute reflects the respect Hackman and his wife earned in the local area.
Family Struggling with Unexpected Loss
Leslie Hackman, Gene’s daughter, expressed that the family is still processing the devastating loss.
She revealed that her father was in excellent physical condition despite his age and had no major health concerns leading up to his death.
He was an avid practitioner of Pilates and yoga, staying active several times a week.
She described her father’s health as being very good, which has made this loss even harder to understand.
Decomposed Bodies and Mysterious Circumstances
The bodies of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa were discovered by deputies after being in the home for at least a day, and possibly as long as two weeks, according to the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office.
The dry, cold desert air of New Mexico may have contributed to the preservation of their bodies.
An arrest warrant revealed that the bodies showed signs of decomposition and were partially mummified, which delayed the identification process and the public release of their deaths.
Unsettling Scene at the Home
Gene Hackman was found deceased in a mudroom near the kitchen.
His sunglasses and cane were discovered lying on the floor beside him, sparking speculation that he may have fallen.
Betsy Arakawa was found in the bathroom, with an open bottle of prescription pills partially scattered on a countertop nearby.
Despite these signs, there were no apparent wounds or injuries on either body, further deepening the mystery surrounding their deaths.
Waiting for Autopsy Results
Officials have stated that the results of the autopsy could take up to six weeks to be finalized.
Despite the tragic nature of the deaths, it is clear that Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa shared a strong bond.
The couple had been married for 34 years before their untimely passing.
A Lasting Love Story
Leslie Hackman spoke warmly of her parents’ long-lasting marriage, crediting Betsy for keeping Gene in good health and offering her gratitude for their time together.
“They had a wonderful marriage,” Leslie said.
The Hackman family now faces the difficult task of coping with their loss while awaiting answers to the many questions surrounding this tragic incident.