Legendary actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakaw
a, were found dead in their New Mexico home on Wednesday, alongside their dog. The circumstances surrounding their deaths have been deemed “suspicious enough” to prompt a thorough investigation.
As of now, the cause of death remains unknown. Preliminary autopsy reports indicate that neither Hackman, 95, nor Arakawa exhibited any external trauma, and officials have found no immediate signs of foul play. Additionally, there were no indications of carbon monoxide or natural gas leaks at the scene.
Authorities discovered the couple’s bodies in separate rooms of their home. Scattered pills were found next to Arakawa, according to police reports.
Hackman, known for his Oscar-winning performances in classics such as The French Connection, Hoosiers, Unforgiven, and The Firm, was married to Arakawa, a classical pianist who was three decades his junior.
Details from the Investigation
According to a sheriff’s office affidavit for a search warrant, maintenance workers found the couple’s bodies just before 2 p.m. local time. A 911 caller reported seeing two unconscious individuals through a window but was unable to enter the home.
In the call, the caller urged, “No, dude, they’re not moving. Just send somebody out here really quick.” Upon arrival, police found Arakawa’s body in a bathroom next to an orange prescription pill bottle, with pills scattered on the floor. The affidavit noted signs of decomposition and other indicators of death.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to determine the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.