Detectives Find Medication scattered In Late Gene Hackman & Wife’s Santa Fe Home

Detectives from the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office, who are looking into the deaths of Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, found an open prescription bottle and pills scattered on a counter near Arakawa’s body. Arakawa, who was 63 years old, was discovered dead in a bathroom next to a space heater. This finding is an important part of the ongoing investigation into what caused their deaths.

The presence of medication means that investigators need to carefully examine whether it had any role in the events that led to their passing. So far, authorities have not disclosed what type of medication was found.

Hackman, who was 95, and Arakawa were found dead in different rooms of their Santa Fe home on Wednesday. Hackman was discovered in a mudroom. There were no signs of gunshot wounds or any other injuries on either Hackman or Arakawa. Investigators believe their deaths likely occurred some time before they were found. A dog was also found dead in the home.

The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office is working with the New Mexico Gas Company to check if carbon monoxide poisoning or other gas-related issues could have caused their deaths. Gas lines in and around Hackman’s home were tested, but the initial results did not show any problems. Detectives noted that symptoms of gas leaks or carbon monoxide poisoning might not always be obvious right away. The state’s medical examiner has not yet shared any preliminary findings about the cause or manner of death for either Hackman or Arakawa.

The investigation into their deaths is still ongoing and active. At this time, there is no suspicion of foul play. Deputies went to the home after a neighbor requested a welfare check. The bodies were not officially identified until early Thursday morning.

Gene Hackman, a two-time Academy Award winner, was a highly respected actor known for his unique acting style and ability to take on a wide range of roles. His wife, Betsy Arakawa, was a classically trained pianist. The couple had been married for many decades and lived in a Southwestern-style home in a gated community in Santa Fe.

Hackman had a long and successful career, with memorable roles in many famous films. Some of his most well-known movies include The French Connection, Unforgiven, Bonnie & Clyde, I Never Sang for My Father, Mississippi Burning, Superman, and Hoosiers.