Gene Hackman, the legendary actor, and his wife Betsy Arakawa, were found dead in their New Mexico home on February 26, 2025. Authorities confirmed on Friday, February 28, that both individuals tested negative for carbon monoxide, though the cause of their deaths remains under investigation.
Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza shared the update during a press conference, stating that while authorities are still awaiting autopsy and toxicology results, they have ruled out carbon monoxide as a possible cause of death. “We’ve ruled out carbon monoxide,” Mendoza said, adding that investigations continue as officials work to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the couple’s passing.
The bodies of Hackman, 95, and Arakawa, 64, were discovered in different areas of their home, alongside their dog. Hackman was found near a pair of his sunglasses, which has led authorities to believe he may have fallen. Arakawa’s body was discovered in the bathroom, near an open bottle of pills and a space heater. Authorities noted signs of “mummification in her hands and feet,” suggesting both could have been dead for several days before being discovered.
A search warrant obtained by People magazine revealed more details about the scene. The warrant also noted that there was no indication of foul play, though Mendoza stressed that no causes have been completely ruled out. At the press conference, Mendoza emphasized that investigators currently do not suspect foul play.
“We are still working through the details of the investigation,” Mendoza said. “Right now, we don’t have evidence that suggests anything criminal.”
Based on Hackman’s pacemaker readings, authorities believe the actor may have passed away as early as February 17, nine days before the bodies were discovered. This timeline further supports the possibility that the couple had been deceased for some time before being found.
There were no signs of carbon monoxide leaks or poisoning at the couple’s residence, according to the sheriff’s office. Hackman, known for his distinguished career in Hollywood, and Arakawa, a talented classical pianist, had been married since 1991.
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Hackman’s career spanned over five decades, earning him five Academy Award nominations. He won two Oscars: one for Best Actor for his role in The French Connection (1971), and another for Best Supporting Actor for Unforgiven (1992). He is widely regarded as one of the greatest actors in film history. His death marks the end of an era for many fans who admired his intense performances in both action-packed thrillers and dramatic roles.
Arakawa, meanwhile, was a celebrated classical pianist, though she often remained out of the public spotlight. Throughout their marriage, she was known for her private life alongside Hackman, and the couple’s deep affection for each other was apparent to those who knew them personally.
As authorities continue to investigate the deaths of Hackman and Arakawa, questions surrounding their untimely passing remain unanswered. While a definitive cause of death has yet to be determined, officials are working diligently to piece together the circumstances surrounding the couple’s deaths.
As of now, the investigation continues to unfold, with Hackman’s legacy in the world of film and Arakawa’s life as a musician remembered fondly by many. Fans and colleagues alike are mourning the loss of the beloved couple, who lived a quiet, private life far from the spotlight, yet left a lasting impact on the world around them.
