In a shocking turn of events, legendary actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were discovered dead in their New Mexico home, reportedly having been deceased for ‘some time.’ The couple, along with their German Shepherd, were found in separate rooms, with Hackman in a mudroom and Arakawa in the bathroom, according to a newly released search warrant.
The warrant, obtained by the Daily Mail, revealed that both Hackman and Arakawa showed signs of partial mummification, raising questions about the circumstances of their deaths. While no official cause has been determined, Hackman’s daughter told TMZ that the family suspects a carbon monoxide leak may be to blame.
The grim discovery was made by two maintenance workers who had not seen the couple for two weeks. The search warrant noted that the front door was unlocked, and two other dogs were found alive on the property, adding to the mystery surrounding the couple’s deaths.
Authorities have stated that there were no signs of foul play, but the nature of the deaths is considered suspicious enough to warrant a thorough investigation. The affidavit mentioned an open bottle of pills near Arakawa and suggested that a moved heater could indicate a sudden fall.
Gene Hackman, a two-time Oscar winner, retired from acting in 2004 and had lived a reclusive life with Arakawa since their marriage in 1991. The couple’s passing has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, prompting an outpouring of tributes.
Antonio Banderas expressed his sorrow on social media, calling it a “very sad day for the cinema’s family,” while Prince William praised Hackman’s unparalleled talent and authenticity in his tribute.
As the investigation continues, the world mourns the loss of a cinematic icon and his beloved wife, reflecting on Hackman’s remarkable career and the couple’s quiet life away from the spotlight.
