Gene Hackman and Wife Found Dead in Their Santa Fe Home: Investigation Ongoing

On February 26, 2025, Santa Fe police discovered the bodies of Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman, 95, his wife, pianist Betsy Arakawa, 64, and one of their three dogs at their private residence. The case has been deemed “suspicious enough to warrant a thorough investigation,” though there were no clear signs of foul play.

Hackman’s body was found in the foyer, while Arakawa was lying in the bathroom near an overturned space heater. An open prescription bottle with scattered pills was found on a nearby counter. A deceased German Shepherd was discovered inside a bathroom closet, about 10-15 feet from Arakawa. Two other dogs were found alive and well on the property. The bodies were already decomposing, indicating that they had been dead for some time before being discovered. (The Guardian)

A maintenance worker discovered the bodies and called 911 in distress, frantically pleading for help. In the call, he repeatedly shouted, “Oh my God,” while describing seeing a woman lying on the floor through a window. He was unable to enter the house because the door was locked. (Page Six)

Initially, there was speculation that carbon monoxide poisoning might be the cause, especially after Hackman’s daughter, Elizabeth Jean Hackman, expressed family concerns over a possible gas leak. However, after an inspection, the local gas company found no signs of gas leaks or pipe issues. (News.com.au)

Police have conducted a search of the home and are collecting evidence to determine the cause of death. While there were no immediate signs of foul play, the presence of scattered pills and an overturned space heater near Arakawa’s body has raised questions. Autopsy results and toxicology reports are pending to provide further clarity. (The Guardian)

Gene Hackman, born January 30, 1931, was one of Hollywood’s most accomplished actors, with a career spanning decades. He was best known for his roles in The French Connection, Unforgiven, Bonnie and Clyde, and The Royal Tenenbaums. Hackman won two Academy Awards and was widely praised for his ability to portray diverse and complex characters. (Wikipedia)

Hackman married Betsy Arakawa, a classical pianist, in 1991. The couple lived a private life in Santa Fe, New Mexico, after Hackman retired from acting in 2004. They were known for their simple lifestyle and rarely made public appearances. (The Guardian)

The deaths of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa have shocked the film community and fans worldwide. Many colleagues and admirers have expressed their sorrow and paid tribute to Hackman’s immense contributions to cinema. Renowned director Francis Ford Coppola stated, “The loss of a great artist is always a reason for both mourning and celebration: Gene Hackman was an extraordinary actor, inspiring and complex in his craft. I mourn his passing and honor his legacy.” (Fox 7 Austin)

At this time, the exact cause of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa’s deaths remains under investigation. The public is awaiting further details from authorities to shed light on this tragic incident. Meanwhile, Hackman’s artistic legacy continues to live on in the hearts of his fans and in film history.