Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were found dead in their New Mexico home, and while initial autopsy results show no signs of external trauma, the mystery surrounding their deaths is only deepening.
Santa Fe Sheriff Adan Mendoza stated that while there were no obvious indications of foul play, authorities are keeping the investigation open until autopsy and toxicology reports provide a clearer picture. Speculation has been rampant after reports emerged that the couple were discovered in different rooms, with Arakawa’s body in an advanced state of decomposition. A prescription pill bottle was also found with pills scattered nearby, adding another layer of intrigue.
The maintenance worker who first alerted authorities had reportedly not seen the couple in two weeks. Upon arrival, officials found the home’s door “unsecured and opened,” raising further questions about the circumstances surrounding their deaths. Carbon monoxide poisoning was an early theory, prompting tests by the Santa Fe Fire Department and the New Mexico Gas Company, but those results came back negative—no toxic leaks were detected.
Hackman’s daughter, Leslie Anne, suspects that toxic fumes may have played a role in the deaths of her father, stepmother, and one of their dogs, despite the lack of clear evidence. She told TMZ that her father had been in “very good physical condition” leading up to his death, maintaining a routine of Pilates and yoga several times a week. If Hackman had been in good health, what could have caused such a sudden and tragic end?
Santa Fe Mayor Alan Webber paid tribute to the late Hollywood legend, describing him as a “gracious and friendly” presence in the community. Despite his global fame, Hackman and Arakawa were known for their down-to-earth demeanor, seamlessly blending into Santa Fe life.
Authorities have not ruled out any possibilities, including accidental death, homicide, or even a bizarre set of natural causes. With two of the couple’s dogs found alive—one inside the home and one outside—the timeline of events remains murky.
As the investigation unfolds, the world is left wondering what really happened inside Gene Hackman’s home in his final days.
