Famed actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, tragically passed away in their luxurious Santa Fe home, revealing baffling circumstances surrounding their untimely deaths, Daily Mail reported.
Officials discovered the couple’s decomposing bodies on February 26, indicating they had died days earlier. Based on pacemaker data, authorities pinpointed February 17 as the likely date of their deaths.
On Wednesday, February 26, local authorities made the shocking discovery of Hackman, aged 95, and Arakawa, 64, in a state of decomposition. They found the bodies inside the couple’s $3.3 million residence, where they had lived a reclusive yet esteemed lifestyle.
Sheriff Adan Mendoza promptly addressed speculation surrounding the cause of the couple's death. Initially, concerns about carbon monoxide poisoning circulated, spurred by suggestions from Hackman’s daughter. However, extensive testing confirmed there were no traces of the gas in their bodies.
The absence of carbon monoxide shifted the investigation's focus to other potential causes. The scene was detailed with Hackman found in a mud room and Arakawa on a bathroom floor, surrounded by prescription pills and a toppled space heater.
The sheriff revealed crucial medical data from Hackman's pacemaker, which recorded its last event on February 17. This clue is significant as it suggests Hackman had likely died on that exact day, shedding light on the timeline of the tragic events.
"His pacemaker's last event was recorded on February 17," stated Sheriff Mendoza, emphasizing the importance of this piece of evidence. The sheriff also noted that further investigations are ongoing to ascertain the full circumstances leading up to the deaths.
The specificity of the pacemaker data provides a narrower window for investigators to piece together the couple's final days. This information is critical as it allows authorities to trace back potential visitors and activities in the days leading up to the estimated time of death.
While the mystery deepens with more questions than answers, the community and fans worldwide mourn the loss of Hackman, whose illustrious career spanned decades with memorable roles that won him two Oscars.
Grieving fans and neighbors have begun laying flowers and memorabilia outside the gate of the Hackman residence, paying tribute to the actor known for his roles in "The French Connection" and "Unforgiven."
Authorities are still awaiting the autopsy results, expected to arrive in four to six weeks, which may provide definitive answers to the cause of death. Until then, the absence of clear evidence leaves room for only speculation.
The unexpected death of such high-profile individuals under mysterious circumstances has drawn significant attention not only from the media but also from forensic experts and the public eager for answers.
The local community and arts world expressed profound shock and sadness over the loss of Hackman and Arakawa, highlighting their impactful presence in both the film industry and their quiet philanthropic efforts in Santa Fe.
Hackman, who had retired from a glittering film career, found solace in the peaceful environs of Santa Fe with Arakawa, a classical pianist. Together, they shared a love for the arts and a close-knit family life.
As investigations continue, the true narrative of their final moments remains partially veiled. The Hackman family, friends, and admirers await the closure that only conclusive investigative results can bring.
