Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa's tragic deaths have captured the attention of fans and the public alike, especially following the unsettling news of their dog Zinna’s demise. A necropsy report recently released has confirmed the dog, found dead alongside the couple, likely died from starvation and dehydration.
Zinna, an Australian kelpie mix, was discovered inside her crate about 10 to 15 feet from Arakawa’s body during a welfare check conducted on February 26, 2025. According to the Santa Fe Animal Control report, which documented severe postmortem decomposition with partial mummification, the dog’s stomach was found to be “mostly empty except for very small amounts of hair and bile.”
“If the dog was in a confined space without access to food or water, the dog most likely died of dehydration/starvation,” stated the report, shedding light on the circumstances leading to her untimely death.
Hackman, aged 95, died around February 18, 2025, of cardiovascular disease, complicated by Alzheimer’s. His wife, 65-year-old Betsy Arakawa, passed away earlier on February 11, succumbing to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome—a rare illness transmitted primarily through rodent droppings or urine. The severity of Arakawa’s condition was evident as her body was found to show signs of decomposition, with areas exhibiting mummification.
Both Hackman and Arakawa were reported to have been dead at home for approximately one week before being discovered. Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza indicated Hackman was likely unaware of his wife’s passing. The Academy Award-winning actor’s last moments were shrouded by his health challenges; he was found slumped at the entryway of their home, clearly indicative of the toll taken by his illness.
Autopsy reports revealed the harsh realities of their final days. Arakawa’s body had decomposed significantly, displaying indications of mummification likely due to the dry climate prevalent at their Santa Fe residence, situated at nearly 7,200 feet above sea level.
Among the couple's now-enhanced circle is Zinna’s sibling, recently returned home. The other surviving dogs were reported to be safe and are currently under the care of Joey Padilla from Santa Fe Tails. Padilla remarked, “Gene and Betsy were amazing friends and dog lovers. Those dogs were Betsy’s babies,” reflecting on the couple's deep affection for their pets as they navigate through this difficult time.
Apart from the tragic narrative of their home, there are indications of pending investigations. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office noted they are collecting information from cellphones recovered at the scene and continuing their inquiry, aiming to tie up the timeline surrounding the couple’s deaths. “The case is considered active until we have information to tie up the timeline,” Denise Womack Avila, spokesperson for the sheriff’s office, confirmed.
While both Hackman and Arakawa maintained low profiles after moving to New Mexico, their influence stretched far across the arts. Hackman’s prolific career spanned decades, showcasing iconic performances and earning him two prestigious Oscars for works like “The French Connection” and “Superman.” Arakawa, known as much for her intelligence and determination as her life shared with Hackman, was said to have transitioned from being a returned shelter dog mother to being referred lovingly as Zinna’s constant companion.
The couple first met back in the mid-1980s at a California gym, embarking on their personal lives intertwined with the grandeur of Hollywood yet deeply private. Following their deaths, interest has circulated around their estate, particularly concerning the privacy they sought to enforce; efforts have been made to block public access to autopsy and investigative reports, seeking to shield the intimate details from prying eyes. A state district judge will be responsible for considering these requests.
The story of Gene Hackman, Betsy Arakawa, and Zinna serves as both tragic and reflective on the nuances of love, companionship, and the impact of health and circumstance. While memories will remain of their shared life, the focus now shifts to the well-being of the two surviving dogs, carrying with them remnants of the joy once shared by their owners. Their story, underscored by tragedy, continues to resonate with both fans and the community, leaving behind echoes of affection and the lessons held within their lives.