SANTA FE, N.M. — There was a mix-up during a recent investigation involving the deaths of actor Gene Hackman and his wife, pianist Betsy Arakawa. Authorities mistakenly identified the couple’s deceased dog, according to a local pet care expert.
The couple had two dogs that survived: a German shepherd named Bear and another dog called Nikita. Unfortunately, their kelpie mix, Zinna, did not make it. Joey Padilla, who runs Santa Fe Tails, shared that Zinna was particularly close to Betsy. He described their bond as beautiful, noting how Zinna transformed from a shelter dog into a loving companion under Betsy’s care.
Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa were found deceased in their home on February 26. It is believed they may have passed away weeks earlier. The sheriff’s office reported that their bodies were partially mummified when discovered.
The investigation took a turn when it was revealed that Zinna had been misidentified as a German shepherd. A spokesperson for the sheriff’s office acknowledged the mistake, explaining that their deputies don’t frequently work with animals.
In the home, Betsy’s body was found next to an open prescription bottle, and pills were scattered on the bathroom counter. Gene was found at the entrance of the house. Both bodies tested negative for carbon monoxide poisoning, a potential cause of death, and no gas leaks were discovered. However, a utility company later found a minor leak in one of the stove burners that was deemed non-lethal.
Authorities are still investigating the cause of death and have collected personal items, including phones and a planner, for further analysis. Toxicology results are expected to take several weeks.
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Betsy Arakawa, Gene Hackman, Dogs, Animals, Santa Fe, General news, NM State Wire, Trending News, U.S. news, Adan Mendoza, Joey Padilla, Entertainment, Gene Hackman-Investigation
