Gene Hackman, the legendary actor known for his iconic roles in films like The French Connection, Superman, and Unforgiven, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were found dead in their Santa Fe, New Mexico, home on Wednesday, February 20, 2025. The discovery came after a maintenance worker, who had arrived to perform routine work on the property, grew concerned when no one answered the door. The worker contacted neighborhood security, who conducted a welfare check and found the couple unresponsive through a window. Emergency services were called, and police confirmed the tragic news. The pair was found in separate rooms of their home, with Hackman, 95, near the kitchen and Arakawa, 64, in the bathroom. One of their three dogs was also found deceased in a crate, while the other two survived and were later secured with the help of Santa Fe Animal Control. The deaths have left fans and loved ones in shock, as authorities work to piece together the timeline and determine the cause of their passing.
The investigation into the deaths of Hackman and Arakawa is ongoing, with officials revealing that Gene’s pacemaker provided critical clues. According to Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza, an initial analysis of the pacemaker showed that its last recorded event was on February 17, 2025. Based on this data, the pathologist conducting the preliminary autopsy suggested that Hackman likely died on that day. However, the exact cause of death for both individuals remains unknown, as officials await the results of further tests, including toxicology and carbon monoxide screenings. Despite initial concerns about potential carbon monoxide poisoning, Sheriff Mendoza confirmed that both Hackman and Arakawa tested negative for the gas. Fire Chief Brian Moya echoed this finding, stating that no leak was detected in the home. The case is being treated as suspicious, though no foul play is currently suspected, and no criminal activity has been ruled out.
The bodies of Hackman and Arakawa were found in a state of decomposition, suggesting they may have been deceased for several days or even a couple of weeks. A search warrant revealed that Arakawa’s body showed signs of mummification in her hands and feet, as well as bloating in her face, while Hackman’s body was found on the ground near the kitchen, with sunglasses nearby, possibly indicating a fall. No signs of external trauma were reported for either individual, according to preliminary autopsy results, but authorities are still working to determine the exact circumstances surrounding their deaths. Pills were found scattered on the bathroom countertop near Arakawa’s body, and police confiscated several medications, including Tylenol, a thyroid medication, and Diltiazem, a calcium channel blocker used to treat high blood pressure. Sheriff Mendoza emphasized the importance of these findings, stating that investigators are closely examining the medications as part of their inquiry.
The deceased couple’s dog, found in a crate in the closet, likely died from dehydration, according to forensic pathologist Priya Banerjee, who noted that the animal’s death was likely due to isolation rather than any external factor. Banerjee also explained that the decomposing state of Arakawa’s body could be attributed to the temperature inside the house, which may have accelerated the decomposition process. The pathologist stressed that it is too early to determine the cause of death, as numerous variables are still under investigation. Authorities are analyzing Hackman’s and Arakawa’s cell phones, which were confiscated from the scene, though Sheriff Mendoza noted that accessing the devices will require coordination with other agencies due to HIPAA laws. The full autopsy results are expected to be released in the coming weeks, but for now, the mystery surrounding the deaths of this beloved couple remains unresolved.
Hackman’s family has released a heartfelt statement expressing their grief over the loss of their father, grandfather, and grandfather. “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Gene Hackman, and his wife, Betsy,” they said. “He was loved and admired by millions around the world for his brilliant acting career, but to us, he was always just Dad and Grandpa. We will miss him sorely and are devastated by the loss.” The statement captures the depth of their sorrow, highlighting the personal impact of Hackman’s passing beyond his iconic career. Fans and colleagues have also begun paying tribute to the actor, whose work left an indelible mark on Hollywood. As the world mourns the loss of a legend, the investigation continues, and authorities hope to provide answers to the many questions surrounding this tragic event.
In the meantime, the community is grappling with the loss of two cherished residents. Gene Hackman, a man whose talent brought joy and inspiration to millions, and Betsy Arakawa, a classical pianist, leave behind a legacy of love, art, and warmth. Their untimely deaths remind us of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. As authorities work to uncover the truth, we honor their memories by remembering the light they brought into the world. Rest in peace, Gene and Betsy—your love and legacy will endure.
