On a quiet afternoon in Santa Fe, the news of a tragic discovery sent shockwaves through the community as Gene Hackman, his wife Betsy Arakawa, and one of their dogs were found dead in their home.
Fox News reported that the circumstances surrounding their deaths have been deemed suspicious, prompting New Mexico authorities to initiate a criminal investigation. Authorities began investigating the deaths after the bodies were found with no obvious signs of foul play.
The couple was discovered by a maintenance worker who called 911 on February 26, uncovering a scenario that left more questions than answers. Autopsies indicated that Hackman, a 95-year-old celebrated actor, likely passed away about nine days earlier.
Despite this discovery, his death tested negative for carbon monoxide, while his pacemaker recorded its last activity on February 17, suggesting a cardiac arrest.
Betsy Arakawa, aged 65, was found in a bathroom, accompanied by a space heater and an open prescription bottle nearby.
Her body location sparked theories regarding a possible fall or sudden cardiac event, incidents not uncommon for someone her age, as suggested by forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Baden.
Near Arakawa's body, authorities found a deceased German Shepherd, adding to the overall complexity of the scene. Meanwhile, two other dogs found on the property were alive.
Evidence gathered from the scene included blood pressure medication, thyroid pills, and Tylenol. Santa Fe Sheriff Adan Mendoza stressed the relevance of the medications in forming a comprehensive understanding of what could have transpired, signaling an ongoing analysis of all materials found.
Dr. Baden offered insights into the medical factors that could have influenced both deaths. Hackman's autopsy showed severe coronary artery disease and high blood pressure, conditions well-known for causing sudden deaths, even with a pacemaker. "What's unusual here," said Dr. Baden, "is the overlap of several mundane but potentially dangerous elements."
For Arakawa, he speculated on the potential for a fall to have caused an internal injury not visible externally. Alternatively, hidden heart conditions sometimes lead to emergencies, possibly exacerbated by attempting to aid Hackman.
One theory Dr. Baden found intriguing was the early consideration of carbon monoxide poisoning, despite autopsy results ruling it out. He noted, “It was a good thought that ruled them breathing in the same air together as a cause.”
Sheriff Mendoza acknowledged the open status of the investigation, emphasizing how the autopsy results will be pivotal in determining a definitive cause of death. "This process will guide us accurately," he commented, as the timeline of events continues to be pieced together through forensic and testimonial evidence.
Hackman and Arakawa, who were last seen together publicly in March 2024, lived a relatively private life in Santa Fe. Their deaths rocked both Hollywood and the local community, given Hackman's esteemed career and their shared life away from the public eye.
Authorities continue to reconstruct events leading to their discovery on February 26. As toxicology results await confirmation, the focus remains on ruling out all possibilities, from accidents to natural causes masked by the stress of dealing with a loved one’s demise.
The widespread affection for Hackman adds complexity to the public and investigatory interest in the case. Dr. Baden remarked, "The peculiar convergence of these elements makes it all the more gripping."
While the official cause remains unresolved, the narrative is gradually clarified by the diligent pursuit of every avenue by officials. For now, bereaved fans and friends await answers on the final chapter of Hackman's storied life and the end of his partnership with Arakawa.
