Authorities are investigating the mysterious deaths of 95-year-old actor Gene Hackman and his 65-year-old wife, Betsy Arakawa, who were found dead in their Santa Fe, New Mexico, home. A dog was also discovered dead inside the house.
The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office reported that the couple was found on Wednesday during a welfare check. Officers did not find any obvious signs of what caused their deaths. However, because of the unusual circumstances at the scene, investigators are conducting a thorough search.
According to an official press release, an initial autopsy revealed no external injuries. The cause and manner of death are still unknown. Toxicology tests and carbon monoxide tests have been requested, but the results are pending.
Hackman was found on the floor of the mudroom, appearing to have fallen suddenly. His wife was discovered lying on her side in a bathroom, with a space heater nearby. Documents state that her body showed signs of decomposition, with her hands and feet partially mummified.
Near Arakawa’s body, officers found an open prescription bottle with scattered pills. A German shepherd was also found dead about 10 to 15 feet away from her. However, two other dogs were alive, and they appeared to have access to a doggy door. One dog was inside near Arakawa, and the other was found outside.
Firefighters checked for carbon monoxide leaks but found no signs of poisoning. However, since the front door was open when first responders arrived, any gas could have escaped before they got there. The New Mexico Gas Company also inspected the home and found no issues with the gas lines.
Maintenance workers told investigators that they had not seen or heard from Hackman and Arakawa in about two weeks. One worker who visited the house found the front door open but saw no signs of forced entry or robbery.
Sheriff Adan Mendoza stated that while there were no immediate signs of foul play, authorities have not ruled anything out yet. Investigators are keeping all possibilities open.
Hackman’s daughters and granddaughter shared a heartfelt statement: “He was loved and admired by millions for his acting career, but to us, he was always just Dad and Grandpa. We are heartbroken and will miss him dearly.”
The investigation into their deaths is ongoing.
