Gene Hackman and Wife's Deaths Raise Questions Amid Ongoing Investigation

Santa Fe, New Mexico - Hollywood legend Gene Hackman and his wife, classical pianist Betsy Arakawa, were confirmed to have tested negative for carbon monoxide exposure, according to the Santa Fe Sheriff's Department. The actor, known for his Oscar-winning performances, likely passed away about nine days before authorities discovered his body.

During a press briefing, Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza revealed that Hackman's pacemaker last recorded activity on February 17, making it a "very good assumption" that this was the date of his death. However, the exact cause and manner of death remain undetermined.

"The pathologist supports the assumption that February 17 was likely Hackman's last day," Mendoza stated. He further confirmed that both Hackman and Arakawa tested negative for carbon monoxide after discussions with the medical examiner.

Despite this revelation, Mendoza emphasized that investigators are still piecing together a timeline using cellphone data, text messages, and other evidence. He called this a "reverse timeline" investigation, starting from the time of death and working backward to understand the events leading up to the tragedy.

The discovery of the couple's bodies in their Santa Fe home has left authorities with more questions than answers. Hackman, 95, and Arakawa, who lived a relatively private life, were found alongside their dog. The physical state of their bodies indicated they might have been deceased for up to two weeks before being found. No external trauma was observed, though signs of decomposition and mummification were noted.

A search warrant inventory revealed items such as cellphones, a planner, thyroid and blood pressure medications, and an open prescription bottle near Arakawa's body. Pills were reportedly scattered on a countertop, raising questions about their potential role in the couple's deaths. Mendoza acknowledged this as "important evidence" being examined by medical investigators.

The home itself presented some peculiar details. Several doors were found unlocked, and one rear door was ajar, allowing two surviving dogs to move in and out freely. Fire Chief Brian Moya confirmed the home was safe to investigate but noted the possibility of a dissipated carbon monoxide leak, though no active leak was detected during their searches.

Hackman and Arakawa were last publicly seen together in March 2024, photographed outside a seafood restaurant. Despite their advanced ages, Hackman's daughter, Leslie, described her father as being in good health, crediting his yoga and Pilates routines. She shared heartfelt words, saying, "I loved him dearly. He was a genuinely good-hearted person."

While investigators currently see no evidence of foul play, Mendoza stressed that the case remains open, with toxicology results expected to take up to three months. "The autopsy report will be key," he said, underscoring its importance in determining how and why the couple passed.

The entertainment world mourns the loss of Hackman, a cinematic icon whose career spanned decades. Tributes have poured in from colleagues and fans alike, remembering him as not just a talented actor but a beloved figure.

As the investigation continues, many questions linger, but one thing remains clear: the legacy of Gene Hackman and his contributions to Hollywood will endure far beyond this tragic chapter.