# Hollywood

Gene Hackman and wife’s deaths ‘suspicious’, authorities investigating

Hackman was an acclaimed Hollywood actor known for his roles in ‘The French Connection’ and ‘Unforgiven’, winning two Academy Awards.

Statesman Web | February 28, 2025 11:42 am

Gene Hackman and wife’s deaths ‘suspicious’, authorities investigating

Legendary Hollywood actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were found dead in their Santa Fe home on Wednesday, prompting authorities to launch an investigation into the circumstances surrounding their deaths. (Also Read: Gene Hackman and wife Betsy Arakawa found dead in Santa Fe home)

The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office has labeled the case as “suspicious” despite no immediate signs of foul play. Investigators are working to determine what led to the couple’s deaths, with autopsy reports and toxicology tests still pending.

The bodies were discovered by two maintenance workers who entered the house for routine work. Arakawa’s body was found in the bathroom, with prescription pills scattered nearby. Hackman was located in the mudroom near the kitchen, his sunglasses beside him. Both appeared to have collapsed, showing early signs of decomposition.

Authorities did not find any signs of forced entry, ruling out a break-in. Emergency responders also checked for gas leaks or carbon monoxide poisoning but found no traces of either.

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Detective Roy Arndt, who filed the search warrant affidavit, noted that a space heater was placed near Arakawa’s body, which might have been knocked over if she had collapsed. A dead dog was also found in the bathroom closet, while two other dogs were alive and unharmed on the property.

The sheriff’s office is conducting a full forensic search of the home, looking for phones, video evidence, fingerprints, and any potential weapons. Investigators are exploring all possibilities, including accidental death or poisoning.

Initial autopsy results confirmed no external injuries such as gunshot or stab wounds. However, further tests, including toxicology and carbon monoxide analysis, are ongoing.

The surviving dogs are in the care of Animal Control as authorities continue their investigation. More details are expected to emerge as test results are processed.