"Death of Gene Hackman and Wife Deemed 'Suspicious Enough' for Investigation, Police Say"
Gene Hackman, the acclaimed actor known for films like "The French Connection" and "Unforgiven," and his wife, classical pianist Betsy Arakawa, were found deceased in their Santa Fe, New Mexico, home on February 26, 2025. Their deaths have been deemed "suspicious" by authorities, prompting a thorough investigation. Maintenance workers discovered the couple's bodies after being unable to reach them for approximately two weeks. Hackman, 95, was found in a mudroom, while Arakawa, 64, was located in a bathroom. Both bodies exhibited signs of decomposition, with Arakawa's showing advanced mummification in her hands and feet. An open prescription pill bottle and scattered pills were found near her body, raising concerns about potential poisoning. However, initial investigations revealed no signs of a gas leak or carbon monoxide poisoning. Entertainment Weekly The couple's German Shepherd was also found deceased, while two other dogs on the property ...