The sudden and mysterious deaths of legendary actor Gene Hackman, his wife Betsy Arakawa, and their dog have left fans and authorities searching for answers.
The couple, aged 95 and 64, were found dead in their luxurious $3.8 million home in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and while authorities have completed autopsies, the cause of their deaths remains unclear.
No Signs of Foul Play or External Trauma
Following the autopsies completed early Thursday morning, officials revealed that no external trauma was found on either body.
Despite initial speculation about the cause of death, including concerns over toxic gas exposure, investigators have ruled out carbon monoxide as the source of danger.
The New Mexico Gas Company, along with Santa Fe Fire personnel, tested the home for gas leaks, including carbon monoxide, but found no evidence of any issues.
“As of now, there are no signs or evidence indicating problems with the pipes or gas lines around the residence,” an affidavit from the investigation read.
While no foul play has been confirmed, Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza stated that the cause and manner of death are still under investigation.
“Initial findings noted no external trauma to either individual,” Mendoza said.
“The official results of the autopsy and toxicology reports are pending, and this remains an open investigation.”
Family’s Shock and Heartbreak
Gene Hackman’s family is still grappling with the shocking news.
His daughter, Leslie Anne Hackman, expressed her disbelief, sharing that there had been no indication of any health problems leading up to her father’s death.
“Despite his age, he was in very good physical condition,” Leslie said.
“He was doing Pilates and yoga several times a week, and had no major surgeries in the past few months.”
Leslie, who is 58, said her father had been an active, healthy man up until his sudden death, and that the family is still in the process of understanding what happened.
She added that, despite his age, he had remained relatively healthy and vibrant.
Bodies Discovered Days After Their Deaths
The bodies of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa were found by deputies who feared they had been dead for up to two weeks.
According to an arrest warrant obtained by DailyMail.com, the bodies were found in a state of decomposition and were partially mummified due to the dry, cold desert climate of New Mexico.
The bodies had likely been in their home for at least a day before being discovered.
Gene Hackman was found in a mud room just off the couple’s kitchen.
His sunglasses and cane were nearby, leading to speculation that he may have fallen.
Betsy was found in the bathroom, with an open bottle of prescription pills partially scattered on a nearby countertop. Neither body showed signs of external wounds or injuries.
Tributes Pour In From Santa Fe and Beyond
Santa Fe Mayor Alan Webber paid tribute to Hackman, describing him as a “gracious, friendly” celebrity who made an effort to be a part of the community.
“These are two people who had huge talent, global reputations, but here in Santa Fe, they were just down-to-earth people,” Webber said.
“Santa Fe is a place where even global icons feel like they’re part of the community.”
Hackman and Arakawa were married for 34 years, tying the knot in 1991.
Leslie Hackman credited her stepmother Betsy for helping keep her father in good health. “They had a wonderful marriage.
And I give credit to Betsy for keeping him alive,” Leslie shared.
Awaiting Full Autopsy Results
The investigation into the deaths is still ongoing, and authorities have stated that the full results of the autopsy and toxicology reports could take up to six weeks to be finalized.
Until then, the mystery surrounding the tragic deaths of one of Hollywood’s most beloved actors, his wife, and their dog remains unsolved.