Oscar winner Gene Hackman, wife and dog found dead- suspicious details emerge

Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 63, were found deceased in their Santa Fe, New Mexico home on February 26, 2025. Authorities discovered their bodies along with their dog, and an investigation is currently underway to determine the cause of death.

The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office reported that Hackman was found in a mudroom, while Arakawa was located in a bathroom near a space heater. Emergency responders were called to the residence after a neighbor became concerned about their well-being. There were no immediate signs of foul play, though the case remains open as authorities gather more evidence.

Early speculation suggested the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning, as one of Hackman’s daughters mentioned concerns about a gas leak. However, the New Mexico Gas Company, which assisted in the investigation, reported no evidence of a gas leak within the residence. Adding to the mystery, reports indicate that pills were found scattered near Arakawa’s body, and the front door was left unsecured. These unusual circumstances have led investigators to consider the deaths “suspicious,” warranting further examination of all potential factors involved.

Born on January 30, 1930, Hackman had a legendary career spanning over four decades. He won two Academy Awards—Best Actor for The French Connection (1971) and Best Supporting Actor for Unforgiven (1992). Some of his most notable performances include Bonnie and Clyde (1967), The Conversation (1974), and his iconic role as Lex Luthor in Superman (1978). Hackman retired from acting in 2004 to focus on writing and painting, choosing a quiet life away from Hollywood. Despite his retirement, his impact on cinema remained significant, with many of his performances continuing to influence new generations of actors and filmmakers.

Following the news of Hackman’s passing, tributes poured in from the entertainment world. Director Francis Ford Coppola called him a “magnificent and inspiring artist,” while Clint Eastwood, who worked with Hackman on Unforgiven, described him as a “dear friend and exceptional actor.” Other stars, including Viola Davis, Josh Brolin, and Antonio Banderas, took to social media to express their admiration and condolences.

Hackman is survived by his three children from his first marriage. While authorities have ruled out an immediate gas leak, they are still working to determine the official cause of death. The case remains open as law enforcement officials examine all possibilities, including medical conditions and environmental factors.

Sources:

AP News - Gene Hackman Found Dead in Santa Fe Home

People - No Obvious Signs of Gas Leak, Investigation Ongoing

Fox 29 - Gene Hackman’s Cause of Death Considered Suspicious