Gene Hackman, the legendary Oscar-winning actor, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, a renowned classical pianist, were discovered dead at their residence in a gated community just outside Santa Fe, New Mexico. A maintenance worker found the couple on Wednesday, along with one of their three dogs, which was also deceased. The two surviving dogs roamed freely in and out of the house through a pet door.
The 95-year-old Hackman appeared to have fallen in an entryway, his cane lying nearby, while Arakawa, 65, was found in an upstairs bathroom with an open prescription bottle and pills scattered on a countertop. Sheriff Adan Mendoza's office sought a search warrant that evening due to the unusual circumstances surrounding the scene. Although there were no signs of foul play or evidence of a gas leak or carbon monoxide poisoning, the authorities remain vigilant in their investigation.
“There was no indication of a struggle,” – Santa Fe county sheriff Adan Mendoza
Despite the mystery enveloping the case, Mendoza confirmed that nothing in the home seemed out of place or missing, dismissing any notion of a crime having occurred. The discovery sent shockwaves through the community and beyond, as Hackman had been a beloved figure both locally and globally.
“There was no indication of anything that was missing from the home or disturbed … you know, that would be indication that there was a crime that had occurred.” – Santa Fe county sheriff Adan Mendoza
Hackman's daughters and granddaughter released a heartfelt statement on Thursday, expressing their grief and highlighting the personal loss they felt amid the public mourning.
“He was loved and admired by millions around the world for his brilliant acting career, but to us he was always just Dad and Grandpa,” – Gene Hackman's daughters and granddaughter
Gene Hackman's storied career began in the early 1960s, spanning over six decades with appearances in more than 80 films, including television and stage performances. He first captured Hollywood's attention with his Oscar-nominated role in 1967's "Bonnie and Clyde," playing the brother of notorious bank robber Clyde Barrow. His move to Santa Fe in the 1980s marked a new chapter in his life, embracing the town's artistic allure long before it gained recognition as a Unesco "creative city" in 2005.
“In the 10 years I’ve lived here, I’ve been taken with the excitement and indomitable spirit of this place.” – Gene Hackman
Betsy Arakawa, an accomplished classical pianist, shared her husband's love for the arts. Together, they forged a life enriched by creativity and companionship within their close-knit community. The news of their sudden passing left neighbors and friends grappling with disbelief.
A 911 caller reported finding "two or one deceased person[s]" inside the house for purchase, adding to the confusion surrounding the incident.
“I think we just found two or one deceased person[s] inside a house for purchase here,” – a caller to 911