Washington, February 28: Authorities are investigating the deaths of legendary actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, after their bodies were discovered in their Santa Fe home on Wednesday. While foul play is not suspected at this time, investigators have deemed the deaths “suspicious” and have launched a thorough investigation to determine the cause, according to Variety.
The couple’s bodies were found in separate areas of their home by two maintenance workers. Arakawa was discovered lying on the bathroom floor, with an open prescription pill bottle and scattered pills nearby. Hackman was located in the mudroom adjacent to the kitchen, with his sunglasses by his side. Both appeared to have fallen to the ground.
A dead dog was found near Arakawa’s body in the bathroom closet, while two healthy dogs were discovered elsewhere on the property. Investigators noted no signs of forced entry into the home. Fire department and gas company personnel checked for potential gas leaks or carbon monoxide poisoning but found no such hazards.
Detective Roy Arndt, in a search warrant affidavit, mentioned no obvious signs of a gas leak, though the circumstances were still considered suspicious enough to warrant further investigation. The bodies showed clear signs of decomposition, with Arakawa’s body exhibiting facial bloating and mummification of her hands and feet, while Hackman’s body displayed similar signs.
A space heater found near Arakawa’s body could have fallen if she collapsed suddenly, according to the affidavit. Detectives have requested the search of the home for phones, video evidence, DNA, fingerprints, and any potential weapons.
Autopsies conducted by the Office of the Medical Investigator (OMI) on Thursday confirmed there were no signs of traumatic injuries such as gunshot or stab wounds on either body. Toxicology and carbon monoxide tests are ongoing. The Animal Control Division has been involved to ensure the safety of the couple’s two surviving dogs found on the property.
The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths.