Gene Hackman And Wife Found ‘Mummified’ At Home; “Suspicious Enough” To Warrant Thorough Investigation

SANTA FE, NM – Gene Hackman, the esteemed two-time Academy Award-winning actor, was found deceased at his Santa Fe, New Mexico residence on February 26, 2025, alongside his wife, Betsy Arakawa, and one of their dogs. Hackman, aged 95, was discovered in a mudroom near the kitchen, while Arakawa, 63, was located in a bathroom adjacent to a space heater, with scattered medication nearby. Authorities have indicated that the couple had been deceased for an extended period before their bodies were discovered.

The initial discovery was made by maintenance workers who, after not hearing from the couple for approximately two weeks, found the front door unsecured. Upon entering, they encountered the lifeless mumified bodies of Hackman and Arakawa. One of the couple’s three German Shepherds was also found deceased inside a kennel, while the other two dogs were found alive on the property.

Preliminary investigations have not revealed any signs of foul play. Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza stated that while there were no obvious indications of trauma, the circumstances surrounding the deaths are considered “suspicious enough“ to warrant a thorough investigation. Initial assessments, including checks for gas leaks and carbon monoxide poisoning, have not identified any immediate hazards.

Hackman’s daughter, Elizabeth Jean Hackman, suggested that carbon monoxide poisoning might be a potential cause, though this remains unconfirmed pending autopsy results. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities seeking to determine the exact causes of death.

Born on January 30, 1930, in California, Gene Hackman enjoyed a prolific acting career spanning over six decades. He earned two Academy Awards: Best Actor for his role as Jimmy “Popeye” Doyle in “The French Connection” (1971) and Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of “Little” Bill Daggett in “Unforgiven” (1992). Hackman was also known for his diverse roles in films such as “Bonnie and Clyde” (1967), “The Conversation” (1974), “Superman” (1978), and “The Royal Tenenbaums” (2001). He retired from acting in 2004 to focus on writing and other personal interests.

Hackman is survived by his three children from his first marriage. The family has requested privacy during this difficult time. As the investigation continues, the entertainment industry and fans worldwide mourn the loss of a cinematic legend whose contributions have left an indelible mark on film history.