Renowned actor Gene Hackman is believed to have passed away approximately nine days before he and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were discovered deceased in their Santa Fe, New Mexico home, according to the county sheriff’s announcement on Friday, February 28.
During a press conference, Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza cited evidence provided by a pathologist indicating the last transmission received from the legendary 95-year-old actor’s pacemaker occurred on February 17. Nevertheless, an official cause of death remains pending for both Hackman and his wife.
“Based on current data, we consider February 17 as the likely date of Mr. Hackman’s passing,” Mendoza informed the media. Despite thorough assessments, investigators have been unable to clarify who passed away first. However, Mendoza did confirm that tests for carbon monoxide poisoning produced negative results, and authorities have reiterated their stance that foul play is not suspected.
The couple was discovered by the community’s caretaker on Wednesday, who alerted emergency services after spotting their bodies through a window. Authorities found Gene Hackman in the kitchen, while Arakawa and their dog were in the bathroom, where scattered prescription medications were noted.
“The presence of prescription medications in proximity to the bodies is concerning and crucial to our investigation,” Mendoza informed NBC News, noting a toxicology report on these pills and other medications could take several months to finalize.
Hackman and Arakawa, long-time residents of Santa Fe since the 1980s, were well-known for their involvement in the city’s arts and culinary communities. In recent years, due to Hackman’s declining health, the couple had withdrawn significantly from public view, choosing instead a life of privacy.
The sheriff’s inventory report indicates various items removed from the residence, including a calendar for the year 2025, mobile phones, thyroid and heart medication, and personal MyQuest health records.
Gene Hackman built an illustrious acting career across television, theatre, and over 80 films spanning decades, beginning in the early 1960s. Memorably honored for roles in “Bonnie and Clyde,” “The French Connection,” and “Unforgiven,” the acclaimed actor’s distinct voice and commanding screen presence earned him numerous awards, including two Oscars.