Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa were tragically found dead in their Santa Fe home, a devastating event that has cast a shadow over their longtime residence and raised questions about the circumstances that led to their untimely deaths.
On February 26, 2025, authorities discovered the bodies of the couple at their $3.3 million home. Gene Hackman, aged 95, was found in the entryway, while Betsy Arakawa, 65, was located in a bathroom. Preliminary reports revealed that Hackman died likely several days after Arakawa, who succumbed on February 11 due to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome—a severe illness contracted from rodent droppings or urine.
The investigation surrounding their deaths uncovered sobering details, including their shared love for animals, which was reflected in their home’s décor. A dog trainer who cared for their pets remarked, “There’s toys everywhere around the property,” suggesting the couple’s devotion to their animals.
Police body camera footage from the day of the discovery showcased a scene of distress. One of the couple's dogs, a mixed breed named Nikita, was seen darting around the property, no doubt affected by the chaos surrounding the events. According to authorities, it appeared that Nikita had panicked after the discovery of her owners.
The tragic fate of their other dog, Zinna, was revealed shortly thereafter. Found locked in a crate, Zinna was believed to have died from dehydration and starvation shortly after a veterinary appointment on February 9, casting an even darker shadow over the proceedings. A report from the state Department of Agriculture's veterinary lab confirmed that Zinna likely died because she was unable to access food and water.
Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza confirmed that Hackman’s death followed approximately a week after that of Arakawa. Medical examinations determined that Hackman had passed away primarily from severe heart disease, compounded by advanced Alzheimer’s disease, a significant contributing factor.
The couple was discovered by workers who regularly maintained their home, who had called authorities after becoming concerned upon finding someone lying on the floor inside. Initial police inquiries reported no signs of forced entry or suspicious circumstances, though the eerie discovery was encapsulated in the words of one worker: “Something’s not right.”
Meanwhile, the couple’s surviving dogs, Bear and Nikita, initially appeared to be in good health when retrieved from the property after the tragic event. Identified as a German Shepherd and an Akita mix respectively, both dogs were taken to Santa Fe Tails, a nearby animal shelter, where they were later rehomed—one out-of-state and the other remaining within New Mexico.
According to shelter director Joey Padilla, significant effort was made to ensure the dogs were placed in suitable environments, with full consent from Gene Hackman’s estate allowing for this transition. “It is with great joy that we have successfully found homes for the Hackmans’ surviving dogs,” stated Padilla. He noted that both dogs are settling in well, further demonstrating the couple's enduring legacy.
A New Mexico court recently granted a temporary restraining order against the public release of photographs and video footage depicting the couple and their home’s interior, aiming to protect the family's privacy during this painful time. The petition, filed by Hackman's estate, cited the need to safeguard their constitutional right to mourn privately.
As the investigation continues, Hackman’s three children—Christopher, Elizabeth, and Leslie—are left grappling with the loss of their father and stepmother. Future meetings regarding the arrangement of their remains remain uncertain, resulting in further emotional strain for the family.
In the wake of this tragedy, Hackman’s illustrious career and the bonds he shared with his wife and pets have brought forth reflections on the significance of love and companionship. Even in their deaths, the story of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa continues to resonate, highlighting how the complexities of life and the unforeseen can have a profound impact on those we leave behind.
