Actor Gene Hackman arrives with his wife, Betsy Arakawa, for the 60th Annual Golden Globe Awards in Beverly Hills, Calif., Sunday, Jan. 19, 2003.Mark J. Terrill/AP
Actor Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 65, were found dead in their Santa Fe, New Mexico, home under mysterious circumstances. The couple, along with one of their dogs, was discovered during a welfare check on Wednesday after a neighbor raised concerns. Two other dogs were found alive at the scene.
Authorities have not determined the cause of death but described the situation as “suspicious enough” to warrant a thorough investigation. Initial autopsies revealed no external trauma, and carbon monoxide and toxicology tests are pending.
Hackman was found on the floor of the mudroom, appearing to have fallen suddenly. Arakawa was discovered lying on a bathroom floor near a space heater, with signs of decomposition and an opened prescription bottle nearby. A German shepherd was found dead near her, while two other dogs were unharmed and had access to a doggy door.
The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office found no signs of forced entry, carbon monoxide leaks, or gas-related issues. The front door was open, but there was no evidence of theft or disturbance. Sheriff Adan Mendoza stated there was “no obvious sign of foul play” but emphasized that nothing has been ruled out.
Hackman’s family released a heartfelt statement, remembering him as a beloved father and grandfather. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities exploring all possibilities.
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