The investigation into the deaths of Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, is moving forward. Following an autopsy and a wellness check at their Santa Fe home, new details about their health and recent behaviors have come to light.
Gene Hackman, a two-time Oscar winner, and his wife were found in separate rooms with no signs of trauma. The sheriff ruled out carbon monoxide poisoning, which had been a theory, and confirmed that Hackman’s pacemaker had recorded its last data a week before he was discovered. Santa Fe Sheriff Adan Mendoza stated that he does not suspect foul play.
Friends and family shared insights about the couple’s health in the months leading up to their deaths. Daniel and Barbara Lenihan, close friends for years, described how Hackman had been struggling with his health at age 95. They noted he had become homebound and had stopped some activities he used to enjoy, like biking.
Hackman’s wife, Betsy, who was 64 and significantly younger, took great care of him. Their son Aaron mentioned that Betsy worked hard to keep Hackman mentally and physically active through puzzles and Zoom yoga sessions. She was also very cautious about COVID-19, always wearing a mask around others.
Doug Lanham, a friend of Hackman, emphasized how close the couple was. He observed that they were a strong partnership and cared for one another deeply. He recalled how Betsy ensured Gene maintained a healthy diet, often encouraging lighter meals over heavier options.
Interestingly, while friends noted Hackman’s decline, Betsy’s health appeared robust. Barbara Lenihan described Betsy as being in perfect shape.
However, there seems to be a disconnect in reports about Hackman’s health. His daughter, Leslie Ann Hackman, stated there were no signs of issues before his death. She insisted her father was in good physical condition, adding that she hadn’t spoken to him in the months leading up to this tragedy.
A similar pattern emerged regarding Betsy’s communication with her mother, who has dementia. A housekeeper revealed that Betsy had not called her mother since October, raising concerns among those who knew them.
Sheriff Mendoza confirmed that investigators are piecing together a timeline of the couple’s final months. They recovered personal calendars and are awaiting full toxicology reports for more clarity.
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Source linkBetsy Arakawa,Gene Hackman
