Heartbreaking police bodycam footage has surfaced showing the loyal dog of iconic actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, standing guard over their bodies as authorities entered their home. The couple's partially mummified remains were discovered on February 26, 2025, in their Santa Fe residence, prompting a thorough investigation into their tragic deaths.
According to the police report, Ms. Arakawa's body was found first in front of a dresser, with one of their dogs by her side, while Hackman's body was located in the kitchen. A third dog was found dead in a crate, where it had been secured following a vet appointment. This distressing scene unfolded after maintenance and security workers alerted police due to a lack of communication with the couple.
Ms. Arakawa, 65, died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare disease transmitted by rodents, which can lead to severe respiratory issues and flu-like symptoms. Her internet search history revealed that in the days leading up to her death, she was actively researching flu-like symptoms and COVID-19. One of her last searches on February 12 was for a healthcare provider in Santa Fe. Reports indicated she had expressed concerns about her husband’s health in an email to her masseuse, noting he had woken up with flu-like symptoms on February 11.
Authorities released a detailed report on April 15, 2025, outlining Ms. Arakawa's final internet searches, which included queries about whether COVID could cause dizziness or nosebleeds. The report highlighted her growing anxiety about her husband's health, as she had ordered oxygen canisters for respiratory support and had a brief phone call with a concierge medical service on the day of her last search.
Hackman, 95, is believed to have died about a week later, on February 18, from heart disease, complicated by Alzheimer's disease. The couple's deaths have raised concerns about their living conditions, as an environmental assessment conducted by the New Mexico Department of Health found evidence of rodent infestation on their property. Droppings, nests, and dead rodents were discovered in several outbuildings, although no signs of rodent activity were found inside their primary residence.
The investigation revealed that Ms. Arakawa had been searching for medical information related to COVID-19 and flu-like symptoms between February 8 and 12. This included questions about the potential effects of COVID on dizziness and nosebleeds. On February 11, she had noted in an email that Hackman had tested negative for COVID after displaying cold-like symptoms. Despite this, her worries led her to cancel a massage appointment out of caution.
Bodycam footage from the police investigation captured the chaotic scene inside the couple's home, where parts of the residence appeared cluttered and unkempt. Clothes were strewn about, and groceries were left on the floor, indicating a disordered living situation. However, other areas of the home seemed untouched, revealing a stark contrast in their living conditions.
Investigators found Ms. Arakawa’s body in a bathroom, while Hackman was located in a mudroom. The couple's three dogs were also part of the investigation, with one found dead in a crate, likely due to dehydration and starvation after being confined for an extended period. The veterinary lab confirmed the cause of death for the dog, linking it to the couple's neglect in the days leading up to their deaths.
The Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office has been under scrutiny for the handling of the case, with ongoing investigations into the couple's health and living conditions. The public has expressed a mix of sympathy and shock at the circumstances surrounding the couple's passing, particularly given Hackman's status as a beloved Hollywood figure known for his roles in films like "The French Connection" and "Hoosiers." His reclusive lifestyle in recent years, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, has drawn attention to the struggles faced by aging celebrities.
As the investigation continues, the couple's family has sought to maintain privacy, filing court documents to restrict the release of sensitive information. However, a New Mexico judge ruled that while images of the couple's bodies must remain obscured, other records related to the investigation can be made public.
The tragic deaths of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa serve as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by the elderly, particularly those living in isolation. The circumstances surrounding their deaths have sparked discussions about the importance of health monitoring and community support for aging individuals.
In the wake of this heartbreaking incident, many are left reflecting on the legacy of Gene Hackman, whose contributions to film and theater have left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. As fans mourn the loss of a cinematic icon, the investigation into the circumstances of his and his wife's deaths continues to unfold, revealing the complexities of life, love, and loss.
