New Footage Reveals Emotional Moments Surrounding Gene Hackman and Betsy’s Incident

Insights from Released Bodycam Footage in Hackman Death Investigation

Newly uncovered bodycam footage reveals crucial details about the investigation into the tragic deaths of Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa Hackman. This release has stirred both media attention and public interest surrounding the circumstances of their passing.

Reports indicate that the footage obtained by TMZ consists of two significant videos recorded by the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Department. The first video features a police deputy speaking on the phone with Gene’s daughter regarding the fate of a deceased dog found inside their home, close to Betsy’s body. According to the footage, Gene’s daughter, identified as Elizabeth, requested that they cremate the dog and lay its remains to rest alongside Betsy.

Elizabeth inquired whether the dead animal was the older one among the couple’s pets. It was later confirmed that the dog was Zinna, their oldest at 12 years old. The emotional distress is palpable as Elizabeth asked if Zinna was wearing a collar and if the officer might be able to preserve it for her.

This footage dates back to February 27, one day after the bodies of Gene and Betsy were found, thereby marking a significant moment in the ongoing investigation.

Groundskeeper’s Emotional Response

The second video paints a poignant picture, showing a groundskeeper visibly shaken by the couple’s demise. In a heartfelt statement, he expressed his sorrow saying, “To see that, both of them … I’m sorry.” The emotional attachment he felt toward the Hackmans was evident as he continued, “I get attached to all these people. They treat me really well. And I met her [Betsy]. She was a sweetheart and to see them like that …”

Moreover, the bodycam footage captures an officer informing that he had reached out to Gene’s daughters, Elizabeth and Leslie, soon after the distressing discovery. This information highlights the immediate response and the sensitivity required in such tragic situations.

Investigation Details Released

Local news station KOB4 shared that it received over an hour’s worth of footage from the Santa Fe Sheriff’s Department, which documented interactions with responders and provided insights from outside the Hackman residence. The extensive footage primarily features exterior shots and interviews with the workers who were among the first to discover the couple.

It’s important to note that the Hackman estate has launched a lawsuit aimed at blocking the release of certain bodycam footage, emphasizing their desire to protect their privacy during this painful moment. Local news outlets reported that law enforcement asserts these videos generally fall outside the scope of the estate’s legal action.

Legal Actions and Privacy Concerns

On March 11, attorney Kurt Sommer filed a legal petition in state district court in Santa Fe in an effort to prevent the release of both the investigation footage and the autopsy results. According to local reports, Sommer’s petition states that the implications of releasing specific images would be irreversible. He articulates that the couple’s right to privacy should prevail over the public’s right to access information regarding the circumstances surrounding their deaths.

Sommer referenced the case of Kurt Cobain to bolster his argument for maintaining privacy, noting how courts previously denied the release of death-scene photographs due to similar concerns.

In the petition, he stated, “The undersigned counsel cannot think of respective harm that would come to the State and County offices from respecting the discretion of Mr. Hackman’s and Mrs. Hackman-Arakawa’s right to privacy.” This sentiment reflects a deep respect for the couple’s private lives.

Sommer elaborated, emphasizing that the Hackmans had long valued their privacy, taking proactive measures to safeguard it throughout their lives.

Community Reflections and Press Updates

Moreover, the Associated Press reported that the petition vividly illustrated the couple’s commitment to a quiet existence in Santa Fe, where they maintained a discreet lifestyle for over three decades. The impact of their loss has rippled through the community, with many expressing their heartbreak over the tragedy.

Gene and Betsy’s estate is represented by Julia Peters, a partner and chief counsel for the Avalon Trust Co. investment firm. Interestingly, Peters stands as Gene’s third choice for estate representation, following Betsy and attorney Michael G. Sutin, who passed away in 2019.

The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Department previously stated that Betsy likely passed away on February 11, followed by Gene’s death around a week later. Evidence revealed that Betsy made multiple calls to a medical facility on February 12, underscoring the urgency of her health concerns at the time.

Understanding the Cause of Death

New Mexico officials have since confirmed that Betsy died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, while Gene’s death results from hypertensive atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, with Alzheimer’s disease cited as a significant contributing factor. Notably, February 18 marked the last recorded activity on Gene’s pacemaker—documenting an abnormal rhythm indicative of atrial fibrillation.

Gene’s autopsy revealed severe heart conditions, including indications of multiple surgical procedures performed in the past, evidence of previous heart attacks, and chronic high blood pressure’s damaging effects on his kidneys.

Furthermore, examination of the brain confirmed advanced stages of Alzheimer’s disease along with notable blood vessel changes attributed to high blood pressure, emphasizing the challenges that Gene faced in his latter years.

Reflecting on Legacy and Mourning

In light of these revelations, the community continues to reflect on Gene and Betsy’s meaningful legacy, as well as the possible ramifications surrounding their passing. Their desire for privacy, even in death, underscores a profound respect shared by those who knew them well.

As developments unfold in the investigation, it remains crucial to approach this sensitive matter with understanding and compassion towards their family and loved ones.