By Katie Scott

The recent deaths of Academy Award-winning actor Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 65, have been labeled ‘suspicious’ by authorities following the discovery of their bodies in their Santa Fe, New Mexico home on February 26, 2025. The couple’s unexpected passing has left both the Hollywood community and the public seeking answers as new details continue to surface.

Discovery and Initial Findings

Maintenance workers found the bodies of Hackman and Arakawa after concerns arose due to a lack of communication from the couple. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office reported that the couple had been deceased for up to two weeks before their discovery. One of their German Shepherd dogs was also found dead inside the residence, while two others were discovered alive outside. 

Preliminary autopsy reports indicated no signs of external trauma on either individual. Additionally, tests for carbon monoxide poisoning returned negative results, ruling out this potential cause. Sheriff Adan Mendoza described the situation as “suspicious enough in nature” to warrant a thorough investigation, though he noted that no immediate evidence of foul play had been found. 

Health and Lifestyle Prior to Death

Friends and neighbors observed that Hackman’s health had been declining in the months leading up to his death. Close friends Daniel and Barbara Lenihan noted that Hackman had become homebound and had ceased his regular biking routine about a year prior. Barbara Lenihan mentioned that his health had notably deteriorated recently, contrasting with statements from Hackman’s daughter, Leslie Anne, who claimed her father remained physically active, practicing Pilates and yoga several times a week. 

Betsy Arakawa, a classical pianist, was reportedly in good health and was known to be protective of Hackman, especially concerning COVID-19 precautions. The couple had become increasingly private, seldom seen by neighbors or friends, and were last seen alive earlier in the year. 

Theories and Expert Opinions

Renowned forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Baden offered insights into the possible causes of death. He suggested that Hackman likely suffered cardiac arrest due to severe heart disease, coronary artery disease, and high blood pressure. Notably, Hackman’s pacemaker had ceased functioning on February 17, nine days before their bodies were discovered. Dr. Baden theorized that Arakawa may have fallen and sustained a fatal injury while attempting to assist her husband, as she was found in the bathroom next to prescription medication and a space heater. 

Ongoing Investigation

The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the couple’s deaths. Authorities are working to reconstruct a timeline of events leading up to their discovery, utilizing two phones found at the scene. While initial autopsy and toxicology reports have yet to determine the exact causes of death, the absence of external trauma and negative carbon monoxide tests have narrowed the scope of the investigation. 

Community and Industry Reactions

The deaths of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa have elicited an outpouring of grief and reflection from both the local community and the entertainment industry. Hackman, a two-time Oscar winner, was celebrated for his roles in classics such as “The French Connection” and “Unforgiven.” His retirement from acting in 2004 marked the end of an illustrious career that spanned over five decades. Arakawa, a respected classical pianist, was known for her dedication to the arts and her support of Hackman’s career.

Neighbors and friends have expressed shock and sadness over the couple’s sudden passing. The Lenihans, who had been close friends with Hackman and Arakawa, described them as private individuals who cherished their time together. The couple’s reclusive nature in recent years has added to the mystery surrounding their deaths, leaving many unanswered questions. 

Awaiting Further Details

As the investigation progresses, the public and media await the release of official autopsy and toxicology results to shed light on the causes of death. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office has urged patience, emphasizing the need for a thorough and meticulous examination of all evidence. In the meantime, the legacy of Gene Hackman and the memory of Betsy Arakawa continue to be honored by those who knew them and fans worldwide.

The deaths of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa remain a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring impact of those who contribute to the cultural and artistic fabric of society. As new details emerge, the hope is that clarity will be achieved, providing closure to family, friends, and admirers alike.