Wellness Check Leads to Tragic Discovery of Gene Hackman and Wife Betsy

Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy had not been in contact for several weeks when local builder Jesse Kesler made the difficult decision to contact law enforcement. The couple’s absence raised concerns, prompting Kesler to take action.

On February 26, Kesler, who owns MudCity Builders, arrived unexpectedly at the Hackman residence in Santa Fe. He hadn’t heard from Betsy in two weeks, a stark contrast to their typical communications that occurred every three days. His instinct told him something was wrong.

“We began to worry quite a lot,” Kesler informed Fox News Digital. “We sensed that something was off.”

Acting on Concern

Concern mounted when Kesler sought advice from law enforcement on conducting a wellness check. He explained that it was necessary to obtain authorization from a family member for this process, yet reaching anyone proved challenging.

“We struggled to contact any family members,” Kesler recounted. “In the end, I happened to see the security guard, and that is when he and I went inside.”

Discovering the Unthinkable

According to a search warrant affidavit from the Santa Fe Sheriff’s Department obtained by Fox News Digital, Kesler and maintenance worker Roland Lowe Begay discovered the bodies of Gene and Betsy Hackman. Kesler, who had loyally worked for the couple for sixteen years, made the harrowing 911 call that followed.

Leslie, Gene’s daughter, revealed to Fox News Digital that she had never previously spoken with Kesler, nor was she aware that anyone had initiated a wellness check on her parents. This information left her shocked and puzzled.

“No one had reached out,” Leslie confirmed. When questioned about whether authorities had contacted her before the tragic discovery, she stated, “Not before they were found.”

Details of the Tragedy

Gene Hackman’s death was attributed to hypertensive atherosclerosis cardiovascular disease, with the New Mexico officials indicating that Alzheimer’s disease was a significant contributing factor. They confirmed that Gene likely passed away alone about a week prior, around February 18, which coincided with the last recorded activity on his pacemaker.

Betsy Hackman’s death was linked to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a disease generally transmitted from animals to humans, most often through exposure to rodents. The New Mexico Department of Health acknowledged that her manner of death was determined to be natural, likely occurring on or around February 11.

Chief Medical Investigator Dr. Heather Jarrell elaborated on the hantavirus, explaining that symptoms often manifest as flu-like. “These symptoms may include fever, muscle aches, cough, and, in serious cases, can lead to cardiac and respiratory failure,” she noted during a news briefing.

Autopsy Findings and Investigation Status

Dr. Jarrell conducted a full autopsy on Gene Hackman the day after his body was found. That examination revealed severe heart disease, which included indications of prior heart attacks and significant complications related to kidney function due to chronic hypertension.

Both Gene and Betsy tested negative for carbon monoxide poisoning, though a comprehensive toxicology report is still pending. The investigation is ongoing, requiring a review of cellphone data and a necropsy on their deceased pet, Zinna.

Remembering a Kind Couple

Kesler shared his memories of Gene and Betsy Hackman, portraying them as kind and generous individuals who genuinely cared about those around them. “They had a big heart for others,” he reflected.

This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of community and vigilance when loved ones become unreachable. As the investigation continues, the legacy of Gene and Betsy Hackman will be remembered by those who knew them, highlighting their contributions to the world and the profound loss that their absence brings.