March 18, 2025

Investigation into Gene Hackman's death takes twist, wife's final phone call changes timeline

New evidence has emerged that shifts the previously understood timeline of Betsy Arakawa Hackman's death, questioning the earlier determination of authorities. Betsy Hackman's contact with a medical service a day after her assumed death raises questions about the accuracy of previous assumptions.

People reported that Betsy Arakawa Hackman, wife of actor Gene Hackman, was initially believed to have passed away on Feb. 11. The cause of her death was thought to be Hantavirus, as concluded by New Mexico's chief medical examiner.

Evidence has come to light revealing that Betsy made a phone call to Cloudberry, a medical concierge service, on Feb. 12. This crucial piece of information suggests that Betsy was alive a day after officials initially believed she had passed.

The nature of her inquiry during the call was regarding an unconventional treatment, and no signs of respiratory issues or distress were reported by Cloudberry.

The timeline of events now suggests that Betsy was last publicly seen on Feb. 11. Her contact with the medical service provides a new perspective for investigators examining the reported time of her passing.

Discovery of Gene Hackman's Body

Both Gene and Betsy Hackman were found dead in their home on Feb. 26. Authorities discovered the bodies in a state of advanced decomposition, indicating they had been dead for several days.

Gene Hackman, who was aged 95 at the time, had succumbed to severe heart disease, high blood pressure, and advanced Alzheimer's disease days prior, around Feb. 18.

Tragically, the couple's pet dog, Zinna, was also found at the scene. The dog was crated inside a closet, having apparently died from dehydration and starvation. The necropsy performed on Zinna showed severe decomposition but ruled out infections, trauma, or poisoning.

Initial concerns about potential systematic problems in the Hackman residence were promptly investigated by authorities. A small gas leak was noted at the stovetop in the home, yet it was determined not to be a contributing factor to the deaths of the Hackmans.

Additionally, minor signs of rodent intrusion were detected on the property, but the threat to the main house was considered low. Thus, any link between these elements and the Hackmans' deaths was dismissed.

When commenting on Betsy Hackman's contact with Cloudberry, Santa Fe Sheriff Adan Mendoza suggested this indicated that Betsy was seeking assistance for an unspecified ailment. The sheriff stated, “That would imply she was seeking medical advice or help and may not have been feeling well.”

Authorities Continue Investigations

The discovery of new telephone records prompts authorities to reassess timelines related to Betsy's demise.

Furthermore, authorities do not suspect foul play in the deaths of Gene and Betsy Hackman, as the evidence thus far does not support such a scenario.

There is an ongoing investigation to understand the full circumstances surrounding the tragic events. With Betsy being the final witness to her own circumstances and the demise of her husband, the complexity of the case deepens.

As information is reassessed and organized, a clearer picture may emerge, providing closure to this haunting series of events.

In due time, investigators hope to resolve any lingering questions regarding the untimely deaths of both Gene and Betsy Hackman.

Written By:
Christina Davie

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