Actor Gene Hackman and Wife Betsy Arakawa Found Dead at Their Santa Fe Home, Authorities Investigate
Legendary Hollywood actor Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife, classical pianist Betsy Arakawa, 64, were found dead in their Santa Fe, New Mexico home on February 26, authorities confirmed.
The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office initially reported no signs of foul play but later stated that the circumstances surrounding the deaths were “suspicious and require a thorough investigation.” The cause of death has not yet been determined.
Discovery and Initial Findings
A maintenance worker was the first to discover the bodies and called 911 around 2 p.m. on February 26. Unable to enter the house, he saw two motionless figures through a window and immediately alerted authorities.
Upon arrival, police found the front door unlocked, with no signs of forced entry or burglary. Gas inspections were conducted by the New Mexico Gas Company, which ruled out any leaks or hazardous gas exposure.
Hackman was discovered in a closet near the kitchen, suggesting he may have collapsed suddenly. Arakawa was found in the bathroom, surrounded by scattered prescription medication bottles. Investigators also noted a space heater near her head, which may have fallen during the incident.
The couple’s dog was found deceased inside a closet, just 10 to 15 feet from Arakawa. Their two other German Shepherds were unharmed. Officials estimate that Hackman and Arakawa had been dead for several days before being discovered.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have initiated a comprehensive search of the residence, looking for controlled substances, combustible materials, weapons, DNA evidence, and any other potential clues. Toxicology reports and autopsies are underway, with results expected in four to six weeks.
Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Chris Ramirez emphasized the importance of the forensic analysis in determining the official cause of death.
Hackman’s Legacy and Private Life
Gene Hackman, one of Hollywood’s most celebrated actors, had a prolific career spanning over 40 years. He was best known for his roles in The French Connection, Bonnie and Clyde, and The Royal Tenenbaums. Throughout his career, he won two Academy Awards, two BAFTAs, and received the Cecil B. DeMille Lifetime Achievement Award in 2003.
After retiring from acting in 2004, Hackman turned to writing, publishing several books, including his final detective novel Pursuit (2013). He lived a quiet life in New Mexico with Arakawa, enjoying painting, fishing, and writing.
Hackman was married twice and had three children from his first marriage to Faye Maltese. He wed Betsy Arakawa in 1991, and the couple lived privately, making few public appearances in their later years.
Family Statement
On February 27, Hackman’s daughters and grandchildren released a statement:
“We are saddened to announce the passing of our father, Gene Hackman, and his wife, Betsy. He was loved and admired by millions around the world for his brilliant acting career, but to us, he was always a father and grandfather first. We will miss him dearly.”
As investigations continue, the entertainment world mourns the loss of a Hollywood icon, whose impact on cinema will be remembered for generations.