Santa Fe, New Mexico, authorities are still looking into the deaths of renowned actor Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 65, a classical pianist. On February 26, 2025, the couple and one of their three pets were found dead in their home. Their death circumstances have been considered suspicious, leading to a thorough investigation.
When maintenance personnel saw the front door was open and unlocked during a welfare check, they discovered the couple’s bodies. Arakawa was discovered in a restroom, and Hackman was found next to the entrance. There were apparently pills on the floor and an open prescription medication bottle close to Arakawa’s body. A space heater was also located near her, which raises concerns about its possible connection to the event. One of the three dogs owned by the couple was discovered dead, while the other two were still alive and doing well.
Both carbon monoxide poisoning and major gas leaks were ruled out as causes in the initial studies. Following an initial examination by the New Mexico Gas Company and the Santa Fe Fire Department, a small gas leak was found close to a stove burner, resulting in 0.33 percent gas in the air. Experts concluded that this quantity was not enough to be lethal, though. Additionally, tests revealed no symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, ruling out an undiscovered leak as the main culprit.
Neither Hackman nor Arakawa had any external trauma, according to autopsies. It may take many months for toxicology reports to be finished, and authorities are now awaiting their findings. To ascertain the cause of the couple’s death, investigators are carefully reviewing personal documents, medical records, and other domestic data.
Regarding the couple’s deaths, forensic specialists have put up a number of possibilities. According to one theory, Hackman, who had a pacemaker and a history of heart problems, would have experienced cardiac arrest after finding his wife’s body, which would have caused his own untimely death. According to a different theory, Arakawa may have died in an accident while trying to help her husband. While they await the findings of a thorough autopsy and toxicology, investigators are still looking into every possibility.
Two-time Academy Award winner Gene Hackman is well-known for his roles in “The French Connection” and “Unforgiven.” Living with his wife in their Santa Fe home, he has mostly avoided the spotlight since retiring from performing in 2004. Many people praised the couple’s long-lasting marriage, which began in 1991. With tributes pouring in to honor Hackman’s incredible career and the couple’s enduring love, fans and Hollywood colleagues have expressed deep grief over the sudden passing.
Many people are waiting for further information to clarify this unfortunate incident as the inquiry goes on. Investigators are still dedicated to learning the truth about their deaths and making sure that no important information is missed. During this difficult time, our thoughts and sympathies are with the families and friends of Betsy Arakawa and Gene Hackman.