Authorities discovered Gene Hackman, a revered American actor, his wife, Betsy Arakawa, and their loyal dog Zinna dead under mysterious circumstances in their Santa Fe home.
According to the Daily Mail, Gene Hackman's death alongside his wife and dog in their home has unraveled in layers of sorrow and unanswered questions.
The late actor's daughter, Elizabeth Hackman, amidst the grief, requested a particular final arrangement for their dog Zinna, reflecting the depths of familial bonds and care even in death.
The distressing scene was first revealed on February 26 when a staff member, surprised by loose dogs, visited Hackman's residence. Sensing an anomaly, the staff member quickly notified the authorities.
"They're never supposed to be out and so at that point, I knew something was wrong," said the staff member, highlighting the early indication of the disturbance. Upon police arrival, the significant recognition of the home's occupant added a grave tone to the unfolding situation.
The staff member recounted to the police, stating, "I told the officer, 'You know whose house this is?' And he said, 'I do, it's Gene Hackman's.'" Immediate entry into the property revealed the tragic tableau of Hackman and Arakawa's unattended deaths.
Investigators arriving on the scene noted the bodies were in a state of partial mummification. An absence of forced entry or signs of a struggle suggested a non-violent nature behind the stillness within the home.
Subsequent autopsies provided some clarity, albeit sad: Betsy Arakawa succumbed to Hantavirus on February 11, an infection markedly less common and particularly serious, whereas Hackman passed away from heart disease compounded by Alzheimer’s on February 18. The household pet, Zinna, appeared to have died from dehydration shortly thereafter.
The peculiar presence of a fallen fan near Arakawa and scattered prescription pills raised concerns, yet without further evidence of foul play, these details remained just part of a sorrowful backdrop.
Gene Hackman, known for his expansive career in Hollywood, had settled in New Mexico for his retirement alongside his wife, Betsy, who had been his primary caregiver during his battle with Alzheimer’s. Their harmonious domestic life was shared with their three dogs, Zinna, Bear, and Nikita.
Following the tragedy, Elizabeth Hackman, in discussions captured on police bodycam footage, chose to honor the bond between Betsy and Zinna. "I'm thinking to cremate the dog and bury it with Betsy," Elizabeth expressed, highlighting the intertwined lives of the family and their pets.
She also requested a keepsake, “If the dog was wearing a collar, could you save that for me?” Such personal requests underscored the tender recovery process from the immense loss.
Rescuers found the couple’s surviving dogs, Bear and Nikita, after the ordeal and have since rehomed them, ensuring they continue to receive proper care.
The tragedy has deeply affected the Santa Fe community and Hackman’s fans worldwide, prompting many to express condolences and support through various means.
As investigators wrap up their inquiries, the bereavement felt by those who knew Hackman and his family continues to reverberate, highlighting the unexpected nature of loss and the bonds that define a family, even in death.
