Investigators are treating the deaths of beloved actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, as suspicious. The couple was found dead at their Santa Fe, New Mexico home on Wednesday afternoon, along with their pet dog. A search warrant affidavit indicates authorities have initiated inquiries following the disturbing discovery of their bodies.
Hackman, who passed away at the age of 95, was best known for his roles in Oscar-winning films such as The French Connection and Unforgiven, along with his notable portrayal of Lex Luthor in the original Superman movies. His wife, Betsy Arakawa, was 63 years old.
The incidents unfolded when maintenance workers arrived without sighting the couple for about two weeks, prompting them to check on the pair. Upon entering, the workers found the front door ajar but noted there were no signs of forced entry. Shortly after, sheriff’s deputies responded to the scene after being alerted to conduct a welfare check around 1:45 p.m. on Wednesday.
According to the search warrant obtained by local news outlets, the deputies discovered Arakawa lying on the bathroom floor, displaying signs of decomposition. An open prescription pill bottle and scattered pills were found nearby on the bathroom countertop. A dead German Shepherd dog was also located adjacent to her body within the bathroom closet, about 10 to 15 feet away. Meanwhile, Hackman was located on the mud room floor near the kitchen, and his remains exhibited similar evidence of decay.
Detective Roy Arndt emphasized the unusual nature of the scene, stating, “I believe the circumstances surrounding the death of the two deceased individuals to be suspicious enough in nature to require a thorough search and investigation.” No immediate indicators of trauma were present on either body, and the fire department dispatched to investigate potential carbon monoxide hazards found no signs of any gas leak within the home. This adds to the perplexing nature of the incident.
Witnesses recount details surrounding the infamous couple’s final moments. Deputy responders indicated preliminarily assessing Hackman’s condition, asserting it appeared he “suddenly fell,” as evidenced by his sunglasses lying beside him. Authorities noted the space heater adjacent to Arakawa's head, which potentially could have fallen had she collapsed abruptly.
With no clear signs of foul play, authorities have gathered evidence from the scene, including DNA, fingerprints, and any objects which might serve as potential weapons. The matter of their deaths remains unresolved, with deputies and forensic teams sifting through the residence and conducting interlinked inquiries as the autopsy results are awaited.
The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office released statements reiteratively noting, “Foul play is not currently suspected.” Spokesperson Denise Avila noted extra precaution is being taken, as investigation continues apace concerning the unfortunate event of Hackman and Arakawa.
Betsy Arakawa, who operated alongside Hackman since their marriage, contributed to the arts community as they lived reclusively yet vibrantly among the scenic New Mexican backdrop. The couple built memories together, having moved to Santa Fe County back during the 1980s. Arakawa embraced friendships with the local community through their home décor business.
Gene Hackman, having stepped back from Hollywood around two decades ago, transitioned his focus toward writing and painting, occasionally participating within local art exhibitions. He was once actively involved at the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, serving on the board and narratively contributing to works concerned with the enthralling artist Yoko O’Keeffe.
A statement from the New Mexico Gas Company confirmed they would provide their expertise during the investigation, stating: “We provide natural gas service at the address. We are assisting the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Department, which is leading the investigation.”
The investigation remains open as authorities work to untangle the circumstances surrounding the astonishing and unsettling passing of Hackman and Arakawa. Autopsies will reveal more information about how and why these deaths occurred, and the results are anticipated to clarify questions swirling around this enigmatic tragedy.
Their deaths already reverberate through the artistic community and beyond, as the couple’s contributions and Hackman’s legacy continue to impact audiences worldwide. Local friends and acquaintances reminisce of their warmth and creativity, mourning their sudden loss.