The recent deaths of Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa have been deemed “suspicious,” according to a search warrant affidavit released on Thursday (February 27).
Legendary actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were found dead in their Santa Fe, New Mexico, home on February 26, 2025.
The couple’s dog was also found deceased at the scene. Hackman was 95 years old, and Arakawa was 63.
The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office has stated that there are no immediate signs of foul play, but an investigation is ongoing to determine the cause of their deaths.
Sheriff Adan Mendoza confirmed the discovery, noting, “We can confirm that both Gene Hackman and his wife were found dead Wednesday afternoon at their residence on Sunset Trail.”
He added, “This is an active investigation, but at this time, we do not believe there was any crime.”
Their deaths are “suspicious enough in nature to require a thorough search and investigation,” the affidavit, released by New Mexico authorities, said via Variety.
The affidavit reads: “Affiant believes that the circumstances surrounding the death of the two deceased individuals to be suspicious enough in nature to require a thorough search and investigation because the reporting party found the front door of the residence unsecured and opened, deputies observed a healthy dog running loose on the property, another healthy dog near the deceased female, a deceased dog laying 10-15 feet from the deceased female in a closet of the bathroom, the heater being moved, the pill bottle being opened and pills scattered next to the female, the male decedent being located in a separate room of the residence, and no obvious signs of a gas leak.”
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Gene Hackman’s career spanned over six decades, during which he delivered memorable performances in films such as The French Connection, Unforgiven, Bonnie and Clyde, and The Royal Tenenbaums.
He earned two Academy Awards: Best Actor for his role as Detective Jimmy “Popeye” Doyle in The French Connection and Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of Little Bill Daggett in Unforgiven.
Hackman retired from acting in 2004, choosing to lead a quieter life focused on writing and painting.
Betsy Arakawa, a classical pianist, married Hackman in 1991. The couple shared a passion for the arts and resided in their Santa Fe home for many years.
The news of their passing has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and among fans worldwide.
Tributes have poured in, celebrating Hackman’s remarkable contributions to cinema and the couple’s enduring partnership. As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of two beloved figures.
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