Authorities are investigating the mysterious deaths of actor Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 65, who were discovered in their Santa Fe, New Mexico, home along with one of their deceased dogs. Officials confirmed Friday that carbon monoxide poisoning has been ruled out as a cause.
According to Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza, preliminary tests found no traces of carbon monoxide in their system. Hackman is believed to have passed away on February 17, based on the last recorded activity from his pacemaker, though the exact date of Arakawa’s death remains unclear.
The couple was found during a welfare check conducted on Wednesday, with no immediate indications of what led to their deaths. However, due to the unusual circumstances, a detailed investigation was initiated, as outlined in a search warrant affidavit.
Authorities reported no signs of external trauma, leading them to conduct toxicology screenings and additional tests. The final autopsy results could take up to three months to be completed, Mendoza stated.
During a search of the home on Thursday, investigators recovered two cellphones, multiple medications—including those for thyroid and blood pressure issues—Tylenol, a 2025 monthly planner, and health records, court documents revealed.
Hackman was found collapsed in the mudroom, appearing to have fallen suddenly. His wife was discovered in a bathroom, lying on her side near a space heater. Her body showed early signs of decomposition, including mummification on her hands and feet. Nearby, an open prescription bottle was found with pills scattered around.
One of their German shepherds was also found dead, approximately 10 to 15 feet away from Arakawa, inside a crate or kennel. However, two other dogs owned by the couple survived, as they had access to a doggy door.
Fire department officials and the New Mexico Gas Company found no signs of a gas leak or carbon monoxide presence in the home. Additionally, two maintenance workers reported that they had not seen or heard from Hackman and Arakawa in roughly two weeks.
A maintenance worker who initially checked on the home found the front door open but noted there were no indications of forced entry or theft. Sheriff Mendoza told reporters there was no clear evidence of a crime, though authorities have not ruled out any possibilities.
Investigators remain open to all potential explanations as they continue their inquiries into the couple’s unexplained deaths.