Gene Hackman, the esteemed two-time Oscar-winning actor, was found deceased alongside his wife, Betsy Arakawa, and their dog in their Santa Fe, New Mexico home on February 27, 2025. The circumstances surrounding their deaths have raised significant concern and speculation.
Family Statement
In the wake of this tragedy, Hackman’s family released a heartfelt statement expressing their profound grief:
“It is with great sadness that we 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 just Dad and Grandpa. We will miss him sorely and are devastated by the loss.”
This statement underscores the personal loss felt by Hackman’s children, Elizabeth and Leslie, and his granddaughter, Annie.
Investigation and Cause of Death
Initial reports suggested that the deaths might have been due to carbon monoxide poisoning. However, investigations by the Santa Fe City Fire Department and New Mexico Gas Company found no evidence of gas leaks or poisoning. An affidavit from a Santa Fe police officer confirmed that there were no signs of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Despite these findings, certain aspects of the scene raised suspicions. An open pill bottle and scattered pills were found near Arakawa’s body, and a space heater was positioned near her head, possibly indicating a fall. Hackman’s body was discovered near the kitchen’s mudroom, with his sunglasses nearby, suggesting he might have been in the process of leaving the house. Additionally, their dog was found deceased in a closet in the bathroom.
These details have led authorities to label the deaths as “suspicious,” prompting further investigation. Sheriff Adan Mendoza stated that the deaths are under investigation, and the exact cause remains undetermined. The toxicology report is expected to take several months to complete.
Legacy of Gene Hackman
Gene Hackman, 95, was a celebrated actor with a career spanning six decades. He won his first Oscar for Best Actor as Jimmy “Popeye” Doyle in “The French Connection” (1971) and his second for Best Supporting Actor in “Unforgiven” (1992). After retiring from acting in 2004, Hackman lived a more private life in New Mexico, occasionally seen at local spots.
His family has requested privacy during this difficult time, and they are grateful for the outpouring of support from fans and the public.
