Legendary actor Gene Hackman most likely died nine days before his and his wife’s bodies were discovered in their secluded home near Santa Fe, authorities confirmed on Friday. The cause of their deaths remains unknown, fueling speculation among Hollywood circles and film enthusiasts worldwide.
Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza stated in a news conference that a pathologist determined Mr. Hackman’s pacemaker last recorded an event on February 17, indicating that the 95-year-old actor died on that date. His wife, Betsy Arakawa, 65, was found in a separate room when authorities arrived on Wednesday.
Despite early theories, Sheriff Mendoza said carbon monoxide poisoning was unlikely, as initial tests found no traces of the gas in their bodies.
Investigators searching the couple’s home, nestled in a gated community in the mountains outside Santa Fe, recovered medical records, common medications, two cellphones, and a 2025 planner. Authorities are now analyzing phone records, messages, and other digital evidence to piece together a timeline of events leading up to their deaths.
Due to the couple’s well-known reclusive nature, pinpointing their last known interactions has been challenging. The home did not have surveillance cameras inside or outside, Sheriff Mendoza confirmed. So far, initial findings show no signs of external trauma or foul play.
On Friday, reporters gathered near the Santa Fe Summit community, where a security guard manned the entrance along a winding road with views of the mountains. The neighborhood appeared largely deserted, aside from workers tending to nearby properties.
Sheriff Mendoza stated that toxicology reports, which could take three months or more, will be key in determining the exact cause of death.
The deaths of Hackman, a two-time Academy Award winner known for films such as The French Connection and Unforgiven, and Arakawa, a former pianist and bookstore owner, have left Hollywood and the local community searching for answers.
