Hollywood Legend Gene Hackman and Wife Found Dead Amid “Suspicious” Circumstances

Authorities in Santa Fe, New Mexico, are investigating the deaths of legendary actor Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 63, who were found in their home on Wednesday afternoon. While foul play is “not currently suspected,” law enforcement officials have described the circumstances as “suspicious enough in nature to require a thorough search and investigation.”

Two maintenance workers made the grim discovery, stumbling upon Arakawa’s body on the bathroom floor. A caretaker of the subdivision dialed 911 after spotting the bodies through a window. According to the call audio, he reported that the door was locked, preventing him from entering, but he could see that neither individual was moving.

An open prescription pill bottle and scattered pills were found nearby. Hackman was in the mudroom, adjacent to the kitchen, with his sunglasses by his side. It appeared both had collapsed where they stood.

In a bizarre twist, a deceased dog was found in the bathroom closet near Arakawa, while two other dogs—both seemingly healthy—were on the property. One was near Arakawa’s body, while the other roamed outside. Investigators also noted that the front door of the house was open, yet there were no signs of forced entry.

Mysterious Circumstances

Authorities initially suspected carbon monoxide poisoning and called the fire department and gas company to check for leaks. However, no traces of a gas leak were detected, adding to the growing list of questions surrounding the tragedy.

A space heater was found near Arakawa’s head, and detectives theorized it may have tipped over if she had collapsed suddenly. Investigators are combing through the couple’s phones, video footage, and any forensic evidence for further clues.

Reports state that Arakawa’s body showed signs of decomposition, including bloating and mummification in her hands and feet—suggesting she had been dead for some time. Hackman’s body was reportedly in a similar condition.

On Thursday morning, autopsies were conducted, but so far, no signs of trauma—such as stab wounds or gunshot injuries—have been found. Toxicology and carbon monoxide tests are still pending.

The Loss of a Legend

Hackman, a two-time Academy Award winner, was one of Hollywood’s most celebrated actors, known for classics like The French Connection, Unforgiven, and The Royal Tenenbaums. His passing marks the end of an era for the entertainment industry.

While the investigation continues, fans and fellow stars are left mourning a true Hollywood icon, awaiting answers about the heartbreaking and mysterious end to his life.