Actor Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 63, were found dead in their Santa Fe, New Mexico home under circumstances that the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Department has described as suspicious.
The cause of death for both individuals remains undetermined, and an investigation is ongoing.
The couple’s German shepherd was also found deceased, while two other dogs were found alive in the home.
Authorities have not indicated any immediate signs of foul play, and there were no visible signs of injury on the couple.
A search warrant affidavit revealed that Hackman was found in a mudroom, and Arakawa was found in a bathroom near a space heater.
Near her body, an open prescription bottle and scattered pills were discovered.
The New Mexico Gas Company is involved in testing for potential gas leaks or carbon monoxide poisoning, but initial tests have not indicated these as the cause of death.
A welfare check prompted by a concerned neighbor led to the discovery of their bodies. Arakawa’s body showed signs of decomposition, suggesting the couple had been deceased for at least one day.
Gene Hackman had a distinguished career as an actor, known for roles in films such as Superman, Hoosiers, The Birdcage, The French Connection, and Unforgiven.
He won two Academy Awards, received five nominations, and earned several other awards, including two BAFTA Awards and three Golden Globes.
In 2003, Hackman was honored with the Cecil B. DeMille Award for his contributions to the film industry.
Following news of his passing, tributes from the entertainment industry were shared. Director Francis Ford Coppola called Hackman a great artist, while actress Viola Davis praised his versatility.
Actor George Takei described him as a “true giant of the screen,” and director Paul Feig noted Hackman’s impact on his own approach to acting.
Valerie Perrine, Hackman’s co-star in Superman, expressed her admiration for him.
Hackman was married twice, first to Faye Maltese, with whom he had three children, before their divorce in 1986.
He married Betsy Arakawa in 1991. Hackman is survived by his three children. The investigation into their deaths continues as authorities work to determine the cause of their passing.
