A forensic expert has weighed in on the tragic and unexpected deaths of legendary actor Gene Hackman, 

his wife Betsy Arakawa, and one of their dogs, suggesting that the circumstances, while unusual, could point to a heartbreaking accident. 

The couple was found dead in their Santa Fe home, prompting a criminal investigation by local authorities, though early findings indicate no apparent foul play.

The Santa Fe Sheriff’s Department confirmed that there were no external signs of trauma on either Hackman, 95, or Arakawa, 65. 

A preliminary autopsy revealed that both had tested negative for carbon monoxide poisoning, ruling out one of the initially suspected causes. 

Sheriff Adan Mendoza stated that Hackman likely passed away around nine days before their bodies were discovered on February 26.

Hackman’s Pacemaker Provides Key Clues

Dr. Michael Baden, a well-known forensic pathologist, shared his insights into the case, highlighting Hackman’s pacemaker as a crucial piece of evidence. According to Baden, the pacemaker last recorded an event on February 17, likely signaling a cardiac arrest due to severe heart disease and high blood pressure.

“The pacemaker keeps track of the pulse, and when it gets too low, it discharges,” Baden explained. “The records would show if there was an abnormal heart rhythm leading to his collapse.”

Hackman’s body was discovered in a mudroom, lying near a walking cane and a pair of sunglasses. Investigators suspect that he may have suddenly fallen due to a heart-related episode.

Theories Surrounding Arakawa’s Death

Baden theorized that Arakawa may have been attempting to help her husband when she herself suffered a fatal event. Her body was found on the bathroom floor near a space heater, with a prescription bottle nearby. The bottle appeared to be open, with pills scattered on a countertop. Among the medications found in the home were thyroid medication, blood pressure medicine, and Tylenol.

The forensic expert suggested that Arakawa may have rushed to retrieve medication for Hackman, only to collapse herself. “She may have struck her head on the way down, leading to an internal brain injury that wouldn’t be immediately visible,” Baden stated. Alternatively, she may have experienced a heart-related issue triggered by stress and shock.

The Mysterious Death of Their Dog

One of the couple’s dogs, a German Shepherd, was also found dead inside a closet near Arakawa’s body, raising further questions. Initially, investigators considered the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning affecting all three. However, authorities later determined that the dog had likely been confined in a kennel and succumbed to dehydration and lack of food during the days following the couple’s deaths.

Two other dogs were found alive on the property, one inside the house and the other outside. This detail added to the unusual nature of the scene, but detectives believe the tragic sequence of events left the confined dog without access to water or food for over a week.

Investigators Await Toxicology Results

Santa Fe Sheriff Mendoza acknowledged that while the case remains open, evidence thus far does not indicate foul play. “We’re looking closely at all the medications found in the residence,” Mendoza said. Toxicology tests have been ordered for both Hackman and Arakawa, but results could take several months to complete.

Despite the lack of immediate evidence suggesting a crime, investigators are carefully piecing together a timeline. “We’re trying to determine exactly what happened and in what order. The autopsy findings will be key in shaping our understanding,” Mendoza stated.

A Beloved Hollywood Icon Remembered

Hackman, best known for his roles in The French Connection, Unforgiven, and The Royal Tenenbaums, lived a private life in Santa Fe for decades. His last known public outing with Arakawa was in March 2024, when they were photographed outside a local seafood restaurant.

The couple’s deaths have left Hollywood mourning the loss of one of its most respected actors. Friends, fans, and colleagues have paid tribute to Hackman’s extraordinary career and the life he shared with Arakawa.

As the investigation continues, authorities remain focused on gathering all available evidence to provide a clear picture of the final days of the Oscar-winning actor and his wife. While the circumstances remain tragic and unusual, early findings suggest their deaths may have been the result of an unfortunate and devastating sequence of events.

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