Authorities Investigate Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa’s Mysterious Deaths in Santa Fe Home

Authorities Investigate Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa’s Mysterious Deaths in Santa Fe Home

In a troubling turn of events, Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa were discovered deceased at their residence in Santa Fe, New Mexico, nearly a week prior to the latest investigation updates. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Department released key findings from their ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the couple’s untimely deaths.

According to a recent press release from the New Mexico Gas Company, an expansive investigation for potential gas leaks and carbon monoxide levels was completed. The investigation took place on February 26, the same day that the bodies were found in their home. The gas company reported no significant leaks or hazardous levels of carbon monoxide were detected.

While the investigation revealed a minor gas leak at one of the stove burners, it was not considered lethal. The report identified a trace amount of gas in the air measuring 0.33%, which poses no danger to health. The gas company did flag several code violations, giving five red tags concerning safety issues. These included problems with a water heater and gas log lighters installed in three fireplaces.

Confirmation of Safety Findings

The New Mexico Gas Company confirmed on February 26 that Hackman’s dwelling underwent a thorough examination. The press release stated, “There were no significant findings. NMGC did issue five red tags, including one for a minor leak at a stove burner.” The other tags addressed compliance issues unrelated to gas or carbon monoxide levels.

Health and Safety Tests Conducted

Following the discovery of Hackman and Arakawa’s bodies, the Santa Fe City Fire Department conducted its own tests for carbon monoxide. Their investigation concluded that there was no evidence of carbon monoxide leaks or poisoning, clearing the home of potential explosive hazards. The New Mexico Gas Company followed up to further ensure the pipes and appliances were in safe operating condition, finding no issues within the home.

Details of the Scene

Tragically, both Hackman and Arakawa, along with one of their dogs, were found dead in their home on February 26. Reports confirm that their oldest dog, a twelve-year-old named Zinfandel, was also deceased. According to the couple’s longtime dog trainer, Zinfandel had a strong bond with them.

The conditions in which Arakawa was found were particularly alarming. Reports indicated she lay on the bathroom floor, with pills scattered nearby and a space heater positioned close to her. Authorities described her as showing clear signs of death, such as bloating and mummification.

Hackman was discovered in the mudroom of their home. His body was similarly found to exhibit signs of obvious death, and a cane was found nearby, featuring sunglasses propped next to him.

Investigative Status and Timelines

Authorities characterized the situation as suspicious, prompting an active investigation into the causes of death. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Department confirmed that both individuals had been deceased for over a week before their bodies were discovered, although the exact dates of death remain under scrutiny.

During a recent press conference, Sheriff Adan Mendoza articulated the challenges they face in determining a clear timeline. He remarked on the difficulty of piecing together the events prior to the couple’s demise. “One of the things is, in an investigation, we try to piece the timeline together, usually before the event happens, and that gives us a lot of information,” Mendoza said. “But, in this case, it seems like we’re doing a reverse timeline.”

This backward analysis includes assessing evidence from the time of death and working backwards toward triggering events.

Looking Ahead

Although the results of the autopsies have not yet been made public, officials emphasize the importance of clarity in the investigation regarding Hackman and Arakawa’s deaths. Investigators aim to provide a thorough assessment while remaining sensitive to the circumstances faced by their families.

The continued investigation into the deaths of the beloved actor and his wife raises questions about home safety and the importance of regular checks on household appliances. As details emerge, many await answers regarding this tragic and perplexing incident.

As the investigation proceeds, updates will continue to be delivered, allowing the public to stay informed about this high-profile case involving a legendary figure in Hollywood.

Reporting contributed by Lauryn Overhultz and Stephanie Giang-Paunon from Fox News Digital.