- Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were found dead in their New Mexico home, with initial suspicions of a carbon monoxide leak ruled out. Hackman was found in a mudroom and Arakawa in a bathroom, both showing signs of decomposition.
- An open prescription bottle and scattered pills were found near Arakawa’s body, and one of their dogs was also found dead.
- The investigation is ongoing, with no evidence of carbon monoxide poisoning or obvious signs of trauma.
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Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, may have been dead for some time before their bodies were discovered Wednesday, Feb. 26. Police initially suspected a carbon monoxide leak, but new details from the investigation suggest otherwise.
A search warrant affidavit revealed police found Hackman deceased in a mudroom. Investigators found Arakawa’s body on the floor of a bathroom.
Prescription pills found near Arakawa
Police say they found an open prescription bottle and scattered pills on the counter near Arakawa’s body. Authorities noted signs of decomposition.
In a nearby bathroom closet, one of the couple’s dogs was found dead. However, two other dogs were still alive on the property.
Hackman’s body also showed signs of decomposition. The affidavit states he was found with his cane. They said this suggests he may have suddenly fallen.
911 call reveals caretaker’s distress
TMZ obtained the emotional 911 call made by a caretaker who discovered the couple’s bodies.
“Are they moving at all?” the dispatcher asked.
“No, they are not moving! Please, just send somebody up here really quick!” the caretaker responded.
No evidence of carbon monoxide poisoning
The fire department did not detect any signs of a carbon monoxide leak. The New Mexico Gas Company conducted additional tests inside and around the home. Officials said they are assisting the sheriff’s office as the investigation continues.
Investigation still ongoing
According to The New York Times, the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office is working to determine the cause of death. There were no obvious signs of trauma, and no note was found.
Authorities are still searching the couple’s home. Police are expected to release more details once autopsies are completed.
