Gene Hackman and Wife Found Dead, Possible Death Days Earlier

Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the deaths of Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, after their bodies were discovered on their property. Preliminary reports suggest that Hackman, aged 95, may have died as early as February 17, based on the last recorded activity from his pacemaker.

The couple was found alongside one of their dogs by contractors on Wednesday. During a news conference, Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza stated that the medical examiner's initial assessment revealed no signs of carbon monoxide poisoning, which can be lethal in poorly ventilated spaces.

In further investigations, the pacemaker indicated that Hackman's last recorded reading was nine days prior to the discovery of the bodies, leading investigators to consider this timeline in their inquiries. Hackman was located in an entryway of their home, while Arakawa, 65, was found in a bathroom. Nearby her was a space heater and scattered pills next to an open prescription bottle.

Toxicology tests are expected to take place in the coming weeks to determine whether medications contributed to the couple's deaths. As carbon monoxide has been ruled out as a cause, the investigation is focusing on other factors. Dr. Michael Baden, a medical examiner, noted that if carbon monoxide poisoning had occurred, it would not have dissipated from the bodies.

The initial autopsy did not reveal any external trauma on either individual. Investigators have also collected various medications from the home, including those for high blood pressure and chest pain, along with thyroid medication and Tylenol, and are reviewing medical records and court documents.

Authorities have classified the deaths as "suspicious enough" to warrant a thorough investigation. They are currently examining the couple's mobile devices, planners, and are reaching out to family members, neighbors, and staff from their gated community to piece together their last known activities. Sheriff Mendoza remarked on the couple's privacy, indicating that this aspect complicates the timeline of events leading to their deaths.

It remains unclear when Hackman and Arakawa were last seen or heard from, and authorities do not believe the couple's residence was equipped with surveillance cameras, which could have provided additional information.