Gene Hackman's 911 Caller Distraught Over Couple's Mysterious Death, Says They Treated People 'Like Gold'

Jesse Kesler, the man who made the frantic 911 call after discovering the lifeless bodies of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa, remains deeply shaken by the couple's tragic and mysterious deaths.

Kesler, a personal contractor for the couple for over 16 years, declined to share the details of what he encountered on February 26 at their Santa Fe home. However, speaking to Fox News Digital, he expressed his heartbreak and issued a heartfelt statement honoring Hackman and Arakawa.

"Gene and Betsy, thank you for the 16-plus years of opportunity, friendship, and trust," Kesler began. He fondly recounted working alongside Hackman, describing the legendary actor as someone who treated everyone as equals. "Thank you for all the stories which I will always remember and cherish forever," he added. Arakawa, too, was remembered as a generous and compassionate soul, with a special love for dogs—including his own.

Authorities suspect the couple had been deceased for over a week before their remains were discovered. Hackman, 95, and Arakawa, 63, showed no external signs of trauma, and their deaths have been labeled suspicious. A criminal investigation was launched after the bodies, along with that of one of their dogs, were found.

Audio from Kesler's 911 call reveals his urgency as he urged authorities to send help quickly. "I found two or one deceased person[s] inside a house," he told the dispatcher, clearly overwhelmed. At one point, he reported seeing Arakawa lying on the floor through a window, repeatedly exclaiming, "Damn," as he fought back tears.

New Mexico authorities confirmed that Hackman’s pacemaker last recorded activity on February 17, suggesting that might have been the day he passed. Toxicology results are pending, but carbon monoxide poisoning has already been ruled out. "The manner and cause of death has not been determined," Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza said during a press conference.

Kesler emphasized that Hackman and Arakawa were "kind-hearted and generous" people who left a positive mark on everyone they met. He urged the public to remember them for their warmth and humanity rather than the grim circumstances of their passing.

As the investigation continues, the entertainment world mourns the loss of a Hollywood legend and his devoted wife. For Kesler and many others who knew them personally, the Hackmans' legacy is one of kindness and humility—a reminder that even stars shine brightest when they treat others with respect.