The beloved actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were found dead in their New Mexico home on Wednesday. Their dog was also discovered with them. Authorities are treating the situation as suspicious and are conducting a thorough investigation.
Right now, the cause of their deaths remains unclear. Initial autopsies showed no external injuries on either of them, and there were no immediate signs of foul play. Officials also found no evidence of carbon monoxide or gas leaks in the home.
Hackman and Arakawa’s bodies were found in different rooms. Police discovered pills scattered next to Arakawa. Gene Hackman, who was 95, was an Academy Award-winning actor known for films like “The French Connection” and “Unforgiven.” Betsy, much younger than Hackman, was a talented classical pianist.
Maintenance workers discovered their bodies just before 2 p.m. The workers reported seeing two unconscious individuals through a window and immediately called 911. In the call, the caller noted, “They’re not moving. Just send somebody out here really quick.”
Upon arrival, police found Arakawa in the bathroom next to a prescription pill bottle. The report describes her body showing signs of advanced decomposition. Hackman’s body was located near the kitchen, where a walking cane and sunglasses were found close by, suggesting he might have fallen suddenly. Their German shepherd dog was also found lifeless in a crate nearby, although two other healthy dogs were present on the property.
Local sheriff Adan Mendoza confirmed that the couple had been dead for some time, as maintenance workers had not been in contact with them for about two weeks before the discovery. The investigation into their deaths is ongoing.
Authorities have declared the circumstances around their deaths unusual. Still, there was no visible evidence of a struggle or anything stolen from the house. Fire officials did not find signs of carbon monoxide poisoning either.
Official reports will take four to six weeks to complete. Sheriff Mendoza emphasized the need for a thorough investigation and accurate information release.
Hackman’s family expressed their devastation in a statement, highlighting their loss. They shared, “He was loved by millions for his brilliant acting career, but to us, he was always just Dad and Grandpa.”
This news comes just days before the Academy Awards, where Hackman was expected to be honored in a tribute during the ceremony. There are discussions on how to include him in the “In Memoriam” segment or a possible mention by the host, Conan O’Brien.
Hackman’s legacy includes two Oscars, one for “The French Connection” and another for “Unforgiven.” His contributions to cinema will be fondly remembered by fans and the film community alike.