Legendary actor Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa were discovered partially mummified in their $3.3 million Santa Fe mansion, with pills scattered in their bathroom, according to an arrest warrant obtained by DailyMail.com.
Decomposed Bodies Discovered by Maintenance Workers
Two maintenance workers, Roland Lowe Begay and Jesse Kesler, made the gruesome discovery at 1:46 PM Mountain Time on Wednesday. Authorities say both Hackman, 95, and Arakawa, 64, had been dead for some time, with visible decomposition, bloating, and mummification on their hands and feet.
Suspicious Circumstances Raise Questions
The Santa Fe Sheriff’s Department classified the deaths as suspicious, prompting a full-scale investigation.
- Betsy Arakawa was found lying on the bathroom floor, with an open bottle of prescription pills nearby. Investigators have not disclosed if the medication belonged to her or Hackman.
- Gene Hackman was discovered in a mudroom near the kitchen, fully clothed in gray sweatpants, a blue long-sleeve shirt, and brown slippers. His sunglasses and walking cane were beside him, hinting at a possible fall-related death.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Ruled Out?
Earlier speculation from Hackman’s daughter, Elizabeth, suggested that carbon monoxide poisoning could have been the cause. However, firefighters found no evidence of a gas leak at the property.
One Dog Dead, Two Others Survive
One of the couple’s three dogs, a German Shepherd, was also found dead just 10 to 15 feet away from Arakawa, while the two other dogs survived—one was discovered near Betsy’s body, and the other was freely roaming the property.
Mummification Explained: Why Santa Fe’s Climate Matters
Mummification happens when a body is exposed to dry, cold air, which slows bacterial growth and preserves skin and tissue. Santa Fe’s arid winter climate may have contributed to the condition of their remains.
No Signs of Forced Entry, No Suspect Identified
The front door to the mansion was left open, yet authorities have found no evidence of foul play. The investigation remains ongoing as officials work to determine the cause of death.
Gene Hackman: A Hollywood Icon’s Final Years
Hackman, a two-time Academy Award winner with an estimated $80 million net worth, turned 95 in January. After retiring from acting in 2004, he left Hollywood for a quiet life in New Mexico, rarely making public appearances.
This shocking discovery has left fans and investigators searching for answers. Stay tuned for updates as more details emerge.