Hollywood megastar Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were found dead at their home in New Mexico earlier this week.
Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza confirmed the tragic news on Thursday that Gene and his wife Betsy had been found deceased in the property alongside one of their dogs, a German Shepherd. Details have now emerged about Gene and Betsy's deaths - but police are continuing their investigations.
A report stated that both bodies were found 'mummified' and in a state of decomposition. It's since emerged that Hackman's pacemaker last picked up a recording on February 17, hinting that he lay dead in his home for 11 days. A male maintenance worker found the bodies of Gene and his wife when he arrived at the property to carry out some routine maintenance.
He made an urgent 911 call but did not go into the house, as when asked if they were alive or breathing, he told the operator: "I have no idea, I have no idea, I'm not inside the house, it's closed. I see she's laying down on the floor."
Santa Fe Sheriff Adam Mendoza told the Today Show that a bottle of prescription medication found at the Hollywood legend's home was now being treated as a "very important" piece of evidence, adding that it "is something of concern". Speaking on Friday, Mendoza said the retireved pills had been given to the local medical examiner's office to aid them determining a cause of death. However, it could be months until the toxicology results come back.
Gene - who died at the age of 95 - had a career that spanned over six decades, with the star receiving two Academy Awards, two BAFTA Awards, four Golden Globes, a SAG Award as well as the Silver Bear. He known for his roles in The French Connection, Unforgiven, I Never Sang for My Father and Bonnie and Clyde amongst others. In his later life, he retired from acting and lived out his days with his wife Betsy at their home in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
The pair were rarely spotted out of their home but in one of his final pictured outings, the actor was seen outside a 7-Eleven store looking frail, carrying a coffee and an apple pie.
Hackman is survived by his three children - Christopher Allen, Leslie Anne and Elizabeth Jean - who are set to be questioned by authorities so the couple's final days can be pieced together.
Gene Hackman's friends reveal his declining health in months before his death
Gene Hackman's health had been "really slipping" in the months leading up to his tragic passing, family friends have revealed.
The legendary 95-year-old actor and his wife Betsy Arakawa, 65, were discovered deceased in separate rooms of their Santa Fe abode on Wednesday. Close friends Daniel and Barbara Lenihan, along with their son Aaron, shared that the star of 'The French Connection' had seen a downturn in his health "in recent times".
Chatting with People, Daniel disclosed that Hackman had become "essentially kind of home-bound", while Barbara noted that the Academy Award winner had ceased his routine of "quit riding his bike through the neighbourhood" about a year prior.
Aaron spoke of how Betsy had been striving to keep her husband "active and engaged", saying: "Betsy tried to keep him kind of active and engaged. She was still trying to keep him as active and engaged and as healthy as possible."
Read the full story here.
What were the pills found by Betsy?
The Mirror attended the highly-anticipated press conference at Santa Fe Sheffif's Office where cops declared the pills "important evidence".
County Sheriff Adan Mendoza was asked directly if the pills scattered by Betsy's body could be responsible for her death, but they are awaiting toxicology results which could take some time. He refused to reveal what the pills were, who they belonged to and if they were on prescription or not. However he deemed them to be “important evidence”, adding: “I think they are important for the pathologist to consider to try and make a determination what the cause ands manner of death are.”
Gene's declining health
Actor Gene's health had been "really slipping" in the months leading up to his tragic passing, family friends have revealed.
Close friends Daniel and Barbara Lenihan, along with their son Aaron, shared that the star of 'The French Connection' had seen a downturn in his health "in recent times". Chatting with People, Daniel disclosed that Hackman had become "essentially kind of home-bound", while Barbara noted that the Academy Award winner had ceased his routine of "quit riding his bike through the neighbourhood" about a year prior.
Aaron spoke of how Betsy had been striving to keep her husband "active and engaged", saying: "Betsy tried to keep him kind of active and engaged. She was still trying to keep him as active and engaged and as healthy as possible."
I was at the press conference... these things still don't add up
Mirror journalist Tom Bryant headed to the Santa Fe Sheriff’s Office to try gain clarity surrounding Gene and Betsy's deaths, yet found there are many questions still to be answered.
Here are the five things that still doesn't add up...
Betsy’s Alsatian was found mummified in the closet in the bathroom near Betsy’s body - and there is still no indication of the circumstances around its death. Santa Fe Fire Chief Brian Moya didn’t answer any questions as to how the dog died.
Cops reported that both dogs were in good condition…despite their owner Hackman having been dead for at least nine days, according to the last reading on his pacemaker. Santa Fe Fire Chief Brian Moya said the door to the back of the house was open allowing them to go in and out.
Santa Fe Fire Chief Brian Moya said that mummification only began after more than two weeks. “It would be over two weeks, “ Moya confirmed when asked directly by a reporter.
Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza was asked directly if the pills scattered by her body could be responsible for her death, but they are awaiting toxicology results which could take some time. He refused to reveal what the pills were, who they belonged to but added: “I think they are important for the pathologist to consider to try and make a determination what the cause ands manner of death are.”
Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza said there was no “surveillance as we know it right now in the interior or exterior of the residence.”
Friends struggle to process shock deaths
Gene's close friend Doug Lanham said he's 'having a hard time understanding' the mystery behind the shock deaths of his pals.
Doug, 76, shakily revealed he 'just can't process what took place'. He explained: "We’d all kind of expected it, he’s 95, and in some of the pictures towards the end there he was looking frail. But to read and hear what took place, I still have a hard time understanding."
Final meeting with friends revealed
Friends of Gene and Betsy have spoken out about the final meeting with the pair before their deaths.
Pal Daniel Lenihan told CNN’s Erin Burnett Friday night: "Last time we saw them, they were alive and well." His wife Barbara added she had last seen Betsy a few weeks ago at a home decor shop the two had opened together. Barbara said: "They were so delightful to be around".
She added that the couple were very fond of one another. "Probably never seen a couple that got along and enjoyed each other so much," she said. Meanwhile, Barbara, 75, revealed the last she heard of Betsy was around "two to three weeks ago", when her son Brendan spoke with the pianist about the upcoming birth of his second child. "[Brendan] was telling Betsy it was a boy, and she was very excited," Barbara, 75, told PEOPLE. "It wasn't a real long message, but then Brendan was hoping to hear back again soon."
Evidence found next to Betsy's body 'significant'
Evidence found near Gene Hackman's wife Betsy Arakawa's body is "significant" and "of concern", police have said.
Oscar-winning actor Gene, 95, and his wife Betsy, 65, were found dead in their home in Santa Fe, New Mexico on Wednesday, February 26. The couple were found deceased in separate rooms by police after the emergency services were called to the property.
Betsy's body was discovered next to a heater, which could have fallen on her. However, police are now said to be interested in the bottle of prescription pills located near the classical pianist's body.
Gene Hackman investigators share update on star's beloved surviving dogs found at scene
The two surviving dogs of Gene Hackman have been rescued following the tragic discovery of the 95 year old Oscar winner and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 65, in their Santa Fe home.
The couple was found earlier this week alongside one deceased dog, but the remaining two pets are now in safe hands.
Gene Hackman's children to be quizzed by cops
Cops are set to quiz Gene Hackman’s three children as they try to discover the actor and his wife’s last movements.
The star is survived by the three children he had with his ex-wife, Faye Maltese: Christopher, 65, Elizabeth, 63, and Leslie, 58. Elizabeth and Leslie were photographed looking sombre a day after the couple's bodies were discovered – as Leslie revealed she hadn't spoken to her dad in months.
What is mummification?
Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa's deaths are the subject of an active investigation after their bodies were discovered at their home.
The couple may have been dead for some time before being discovered, forensice detail suggests. A search warrant reads: "[Arakawa’s] body was in a state of decomposition with bloating in her face and mummification in her hands and feet."
But, what is mummification? Read more, here.
Police statement in full
On Friday afternoon, Santa Fe Police Department held a press conference into Gene and Betsy's death.
Giving an update into the investigation, Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza said: "Good afternoon everybody, I am Sheriff Adan Mendoza, Sheriff for Santa Fe County New Mexico. On Wendesday, February 26 2025 at approxiamtely 1.45pm Santa Fe County Sheriffs deputies were dispatched to 1425 Old Sunset Trail where Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife Betsy Arkawa, 65, and their dog were found deceased...."
Police reveal results of carbon monoxide test
At a press conference held at 3pm local time, Sheriff Adan Mendoza revealed Gene and his wife Betsy were tested for carbon monoxide poisoning, the results showed no sign of carbon monoxide. He added: "An autopsy was performed. Initial findings noted no external trauma to either individual. The manner and cause of death has not been determined. The official results of the autopsy and toxicology reports are pending."
It comes after Hackman's family said they suspected carbon moxodie poisoning as the cause of death. Elizabeth Jean Hackman, their daughter, shared with TMZ on Thursday that while the exact cause is uncertain, they believe toxic fumes may have played a role.
Hackman lay dead for nine days before he was found
Cops confirmed that an investigation into Gene's pacemaker revealed it was last recorded on February 17.
Sheriff Adan Mendoza said: "An initial interrogation was conducted of Mr. Hackman's pacemaker. This revealed that his last event was recorded on February 17, 2025, I was advised that a more thorough investigation will be completed that'll conclude my statement."
Read the full story here.
Police contacting 'workers, maintenance workers, family members, security' in search for clues
Authorities have announced a list of people they intend to question as they search for clues surrounding the deaths of Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa. On Friday, Sheriff Adan Mendoza gave an update on the investigation at a press briefing.
He said: "We're going to go through the planner. We're contacting workers, maintenance workers, family members, security. We're going to be talking to security. There's in and out that's, I believe, is documented. So we're working with them to try to determine, you know, when the last contact was, and that'll help us put together that timeline."
Cause of death update as authorities make progress
At a press conference on Friday, Sheriff Adan Mendoza spoke about the circumstances surrounding the deaths of Gene and his wife. It was revealed that the couple's corpses have tested negative for carbon monoxide - which had been theorised as a possible cause of death.
Mendoza added: "An initial interrogation was conducted of Mr. Hackman pacemaker. This revealed that his last event was recorded on February 17, 2025, I was advised that a more thorough investigation will be completed that'll conclude my statement."
Police are currently unsure who died first. There is also no CCTV to assist with their investigation."There is no surveillance as we know it right now, in in in the interior of the residence or the exterior of the residents," Mendoza added.
Locals remember 'vital role' Gene had in Santa Fe community
Locals in Santa Fe, New Meixoc, where Gene Hackman and his wife were discovered dead at home have recalled his significance to the community. The Hollywood star was on the board of trustees of the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum - with the Santa Fe New Mexican reporting a spokesperson for the museum saying the star played “a vital role in shaping the Museum’s early years,” when it operated from 1997 to 2004. The statement declared: “Beyond his role as a Trustee, Gene contributed to the Museum in meaningful ways, notably as the narrator of the Perry Miller Adato film, Georgia O’Keeffe: A Life in Art. The Museum is grateful for his commitment to sharing Georgia O’Keeffe’s legacy and for their deep support of the arts and cultural initiatives.”
Local restaurateur Brian Knox wrote in an online message: “Their kindness and support of this community contributed to the vibrancy of Santa Fe arts and food culture. They helped create memories and experiences that have been enjoyed by millions of residents and visitors … while asking for little in return. Gene and Betsy will be missed and remembered forever."
Nine questions leaving investigators baffled
It’s a riddle that has baffled police and left his family desperately searching for answers.
The death of Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy in mysterious circumstances at their remote home in Santa Fe, New Mexico, has even the most experienced officers scratching their heads. The chaotic scenes which greeted cops as they attended his isolated home were laid bare in a four-page search warrant.
Hackman was found slumped on the floor in the kitchen, while his wife was in the bathroom, a dead dog in the closet. In the document, it quickly becomes apparent that there could be all manner of ways the couple may have met their sad demise.
Click here to see what has left investigators confused.
Secret details of Gene's hidden home unveiled
Hollywood star Gene Hackman and his classical pianist wife Betsy Arakawa lived in a secluded home in Santa Fe, New Mexico - where their bodies were discovered this week. Gene previously spoke proudly about his hidden property, placed on a hilltop among 12 acres of land - saying he found his private escape peaceful and magical.
He told Architectural Digest back in 1990 that he worked to remodelled the 1950s portion of the house into a new home for him and his wife, describing it as a "part pueblo, part colonial New Mexico, part Spanish Baroque" property. He added: "It had a kind of magic in it. It's totally different from my other houses. The Montecito house was very formal."
Police share what drugs were found next to mummified bodies
As authorities try to piece together the final moments of Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa, reports have revealed what drugs were discovered at the scene. Investigators conducted a search of the $3.8 million home on Thursday, discovering thyroid medication, Diltiazem, and Tylenol. Arakawa was found dead on the bathroom floor, with an open bottle of prescription pills partially spilled on a nearby countertop.
A 2025 monthly calendar planner was also found, suggesting the couple had plans for the future. Police also recovered two green phones and the couple's health records, though no further details have been disclosed about their contents. Autopsies were completed early Thursday morning, but authorities are still awaiting the full results, including the toxicology report - which is expected to take three weeks to herald results.
'Hive of activity' outside Gene and Betsy's home
Reporters and camera crews have descended upon secluded community in Santa Fe, New Mexico - where Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa were found dead. The Mirror's Tom Bryant, who's been reporting from the area, said of the place where Gene called home: "Eerily quiet with very little through traffic, the sprawling property nestled in 12 acres offers total isolation.
"For some, this degree of being away from it all could prove unsettling. But Gene appeared to relish in the anonymity that the unique location afforded. A security hut is tucked away off the main road to vet everyone that arrives. They are met with grey gates that mark the start of a winding, tree-lined path up to his home." Tom added that the area was a "hive of activity" at the entrance of the compound yesterday evening.
Authorities refuse to rule out Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Investigators searching for answers about the deaths of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa have not ruled out the possibility that they died of carbon monoxide poisoning. Family of the Hollywood star have already suggested that this could be a cause of the deaths that have rocked Hollywood.
TMZ reported on Friday that Santa Fe fire officials had announced that, while their meters didn’t detect anything suspicious relating to carbon monoxide, they couldn't exclude the possibility. The outlet reports: "They pointed out Gene and Betsy’s New Mexico home had natural gas ... and a leak could have dissipated by the time their bodies were discovered."
Gene previously discussed difficulties his children endured due to his fame
Hollywood legend Gene Hackman had three children; son Christopher Allen, and daughters Elizabeth Jean, and Leslie Anne Hackman - all of whom he shared with first wife Faye Maltese, who he was married to from 1956 until 1986. The actor had previously explained he felt he missed out on aspects of his children's lives due to his bust work as an actor.
Speaking about their relationship in 2000, Gene admitted: "It's tough being the son or daughter of a celebrity. I couldn't always be home with them when they were growing up and then, living in California, they've had my success always hanging over their heads."
And in a GQ interview in 2012, Gene made a heartfelt confession about missing out on family moments. When asked what advice he would give his son, he said: "I lost touch with my son in terms of advice early on. Maybe it had to do with being gone so much, doing location films when he was at an age where he needed support and guidance. It was very tough for me to be gone for three months and then come home and start bossing him around."
Update on the two surviving dogs
Whilst one dog sadly died, two survived - and now it has been revealed what has happened to them.
Santa Fe County Animal Control Division is said to be now working with the actor's family to “ensure the safety of the two dogs". Dogs were a very important part of Gene and Betsy's lives and he has spoken about his love for his pets over the years.
Police to hold press conference today
It has been confirmed that a press conference will be given today after the death of Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arawaka.
The Santa Fe Police Department will hold a press conference at 3pm local time on Friday February 28th, which will be at 10pm UK time, at the Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office following a day of investigations.
Gene's wife 'kept him alive' in his final years
Heartbreaking details have emerged about Gene and his wife's close bond following their deaths.
Describing their marriage as "wonderful", his daughter Leslie said: "I give credit to his wife, Betsy, for keeping him alive. She (Betsy) took very, very good care of him and was always looking out for his health. I am appreciative to her for that, and I'm very saddened by her passing."
In the lead up to his sad death, Gene had been keeping fit with yoga and pilates several times a week, and he had been on a strict diet thanks to Betsy, accoridng to his close friend Doug Lanham.
Tributes flood in for Gene
Tributes have continued to flood in for Gene following his death at the age of 95.
In a tribute, Tom Hanks wrote: "There has never been a 'Gene Hackman Type.' There has only been Gene Hackman," whilst Michelle Pfieffer added: "What a tremendous talent and tremendous loss for cinephiles everywhere. A true legend in cinema. Sending love and light to Gene."
Barbra Streisand, who starred alongside Hackman in the romantic comedy All Night Long, also shared a tribute: "Gene Hackman was an incredible actor. He lived a long life and left an amazing legacy. May he rest in peace."
BBC suffers technical blunder whilst reporting on Gene's death
BBC Breakfast presenter Charlie Stayt had to apologise after a technical blunder on the show this morning.
At the end of a pre-recorded news report updating viewers on the death of the Hollywood legend, a photo of the actor remained on the screen even when Charlie Stayt moved onto the next item on the programme.
The next segment was a report on the controversial BBC documentary about Gaza that was narrated by the son of a Hamas leader. "The BBC has apologised for serious flaws in the production of a documentary about the war in Gaza," he started to say as the image was removed. He then added: "Apologies, let’s just get, err, that bit straightened out."
Detectives probe Hollywood star's final movements
On Good Morning Britain today, discussion was rife about Gene and Betsy's sad death.
In a news segment, reporter Noel Phillips revealed: "Detectives are now trying to build a timeline of the couple's final movements, when were they last seen in public. CCTV in this area will also be checked as well as their phone records to understand who they may have last spoken to before they died. Now what doesn't help is the fact that they lived such a private life so as you can imagine, a lot of people here in this community are still grappling with the news."
As investigations continue, we expect to hear more from the Sheriff department in Santa Fe about the mystery surrounding the couple's death and the death of their pet dog.
911 call in full as distressed caretaker begs for help
Gene and Betsy were discovered by one of their caretakers, who had made their way to the property to carry out routine maintenance. On arrival, the man spotted a woman laying on the floor as he looked through a window into the property.
"Hello, my name is [redacted], I’m the caretaker for Santa Fe Summit up here about [unintelligible]. I think we just found two or one deceased person inside the house," he said in the call.
Later in the call, the operator then asked if they were "breathing", and the caller explained: "I have no idea, I’m not inside the house. It’s closed, it’s locked. I can’t go in, but I see them laying… she’s laying down on the floor from the window."
Gene and Betsy's final moments
As investigations continue about what happened to Gene and Betsy and their pet dog, mystery shrouds the pair's final moments and what exactly happened in their home.
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