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The Sun
27-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Gene Hackman's cause of death confirmed two months after star was found dead at home with wife Betsy
GENE Hackman's official cause of death has been revealed after the Hollywood actor was found dead at his mansion in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The Oscar-winning actor was found dead alongside his wife Betsy Arakawa, 65, and one of their dogs on February 26. 8 8 8 A caretaker raised the alarm after spotting Arakawa lying on the flood as he looked through a window of the property. The bodies of Hackman, 95, and Arakawa were found in different sections of their expansive home after sheriff officials responded to a welfare check at the property. Authorities later confirmed Hackman died of 'significant' heart disease, with Alzheimer's as a contributing factor, while Arakawa is believed to have died a week earlier from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. Official documents state: "Autopsy showed severe atherosclerotic and hypertensive cardiovascular disease, with placement of coronary artery stents and a bypass graft, as well as a previous aortic valve replacement." Investigators previously described how they believed the couple died days apart, and due to Hackman's advanced Alzheimer's, it is possible he did not know his wife was dead. Heartbreaking surveillance footage was also found to have captured the final movements of Gene Hackman's wife Betsy Arakawa weeks before the couple's mummified bodies were found on their sprawling New Mexico estate. Two weeks before investigators stumbled upon the grim findings, Arakawa was captured on video keeping herself busy and running errands. Surveillance footage showed Arakawa at a Sprouts Grocery Market self-checkout, purchasing groceries at around 4 pm on February 11. Arakawa is captured on video wearing blue jeans, a dark coat, a scarf, and a black face mask. Minutes later, Arakawa was seen on video stopping by Shine Pet Food store. The surveillance videos showed Arakawa was unaccompanied as she entered and exited the businesses without any glaring health ailments. The videos were part of a trove of documents released by the Santa Fe Sheriff's Office on Tuesday as part of their investigation into the deaths of Hackman and Arakawa. 8 8 8 HARROWING FIND Bodycam footage released by the Santa Fe Sheriff's Office showed the moment responding deputies arrived at the puzzling scene, where one of the couple's German Shepherd dogs was guarding Arakawa's body. "Poor guy, he's sad," one of the investigators can be heard saying. A separate video showed the moment investigators find Hackman's body in a separate section of the property. "Two totally separate areas of the house," a deputy is heard saying, as another responds, "Mhm, it's strange." One of the couple's three dogs was also found dead in a crate in a bathroom closet near where Arakawa's body was found. The other two dogs were alive as one is heard barking in the background. The video also showed deputies going through the rooms of the estate, checking for any signs of forced entry or foul play. Investigators were seen counting cash that was found around the home, looking at prescription medication on one of the bathroom counters, and check the kitchen's stove after any potential gas leak. The leak concerns lead investigators to begin opening doors and windows around the house. A separate video showed technicians inspecting the home for signs of a gas or carbon monoxide leak. However, a thorough inspection showed there were no leaks. 8 8
The Irish Sun
27-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Gene Hackman's cause of death confirmed two months after star was found dead at home with wife Betsy
GENE Hackman's official cause of death has been revealed after the Hollywood actor was found dead at his mansion in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The Oscar-winning actor was found dead alongside his wife Betsy Arakawa, 65, and one of their dogs on February 26. Advertisement 8 The actor with his wife, Betsy Arakawa Credit: AP 8 Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, pictured together in 1995Surveillance footage showed Betsy Arakawa stopping by a pet shop in Santa Fe on February 11 Credit: Getty Images 8 Photos of the front entrance of Hackman and Arakawa's Santa Fe estate Credit: Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office A caretaker raised the alarm after spotting Arakawa lying on the flood as he looked through a window of the property. The bodies of Authorities later confirmed Hackman died of 'significant' heart disease , with Alzheimer's as a contributing factor , while Arakawa is believed to have died a week earlier from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. Official documents state: "Autopsy showed severe atherosclerotic and hypertensive cardiovascular disease, with placement of coronary artery stents and a bypass graft, as well as a previous aortic valve replacement." Advertisement Investigators previously described how they believed the couple died days apart, and due to Hackman's advanced Alzheimer's, it is possible he did not know his wife was dead. Heartbreaking surveillance footage was also found to have captured the final movements of Gene Hackman's wife Betsy Arakawa weeks before the couple's mummified bodies were found on their sprawling New Mexico estate. Two weeks before investigators stumbled upon the grim findings, Arakawa was captured on video keeping herself busy and running errands. Surveillance footage showed Arakawa at a Sprouts Grocery Market self-checkout, purchasing groceries at around 4 pm on February 11. Advertisement Most read in Showbiz Arakawa is captured on video wearing blue jeans, a dark coat, a scarf, and a black face mask. Minutes later, Arakawa was seen on video stopping by Shine Pet Food store. The surveillance videos showed Arakawa was unaccompanied as she entered and exited the businesses without any glaring health ailments. The videos were part of a trove of documents released by the Santa Fe Sheriff's Office on Tuesday as part of their investigation into the deaths of Hackman and Arakawa. Advertisement 8 Police evidence photos reveal Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa's severely cluttered $4M Santa Fe home two months after their tragic deaths Credit: The Mega Agency 8 Gene Hackman & wife Betsy's $11m real estate portfolio revealed Credit: Google Maps 8 Investigators searched through a medicine cabinet at the home Credit: Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office HARROWING FIND Bodycam footage released by the Santa Fe Sheriff's Office showed the moment responding deputies arrived at the puzzling scene, where one of the couple's German Shepherd dogs was guarding Arakawa's body. Advertisement "Poor guy, he's sad," one of the investigators can be heard saying. A separate video showed the moment investigators find Hackman's body in a separate section of the property. "Two totally separate areas of the house," a deputy is heard saying, as another responds, "Mhm, it's strange." One of the couple's three dogs was also found dead in a crate in a bathroom closet near where Arakawa's body was found. Advertisement The other two dogs were alive as one is heard barking in the background. The video also showed deputies going through the rooms of the estate, checking for any signs of forced entry or foul play. Investigators were seen counting cash that was found around the home, looking at prescription medication on one of the bathroom counters, and check the kitchen's stove after any potential gas leak. The leak concerns lead investigators to begin opening doors and windows around the house. Advertisement Read more on the Irish Sun A separate video showed technicians inspecting the home for signs of a gas or carbon monoxide leak. However, a thorough inspection showed there were no leaks. 8 The counter of the bathroom where Arakawa's body was found Credit: Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office 8 A closest area in the couple's Santa Fe home Credit: Santa Fe Sheriff's Office Advertisement
Irish Daily Star
23-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Daily Star
Gene Hackman's 'infested' home revealed after tragic death with fans shocked
Startling police images have exposed the shocking conditions inside Gene Hackman's home, where the legendary actor and his wife were found dead in February, with their deaths still prompting theories online among fans. The Santa Fe, New Mexico property was in complete disarray, with authorities describing it as a "breeding ground for infestation" upon finding numerous dead rodents, their droppings, and nests throughout the home, with shocking images showing the messy state of the home. It has been confirmed that 95-year-old Gene succumbed to complications from severe heart disease, hypertension, and late-stage Alzheimer's disease, while his 65-year-old wife Betsy Arakawa died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome – a rare disease spread by rodents. Read More Related Articles Gene Hackman's wife Betsy's final hours revealed as hantavirus fears unfolded Read More Related Articles Gene Hackman and wife Betsy Arakawa finally laid to rest two months after their deaths X users expressed their dismay over the state of Gene's residence. Gene Hackman's home (Image: (Image: Santa Fe Sheriff's Office)) "This honestly isn't fair. They were both elderly and not in good health. They couldn't take care of themselves, let alone their house. This should not be the way they were remembered or exploited," lamented one X user, reports the Mirror US . Another commented: "This story keeps getting sadder. Did no one look in on them?" Redacted body camera footage reveals officers inspecting the premises, observing no signs of forced entry or anything amiss with the couple's belongings when their bodies were discovered. The video captures the sight of prescription bottles on a bathroom counter, accompanied by the sound of one of the couple's dogs barking in the background. A court initially sealed all photos, videos, and documents related to the investigation due to privacy concerns. However, following a request by Gene's estate and Betsy's mother to extend this order, the court has now permitted the release of investigative files, with the exception of imagery showing the deceased individuals. The Irish Star uncovers a household in disarray, revealing how officers navigating the clutter encountered an array of personal belongings—clothing, toiletries, medication vials, dog cages, and books—strewn across the space from kitchen to private chambers. Oddly tidied spaces juxtaposed against utter disarray, like a bathroom crammed with cartons, literary material, documents, and miscellaneous items such as a fan and animal enclosures, encapsulate the scene. Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa (Image: (Image: Getty)) Counters were awash with an eclectic mix of things: drugs, containers, grooming products, combs, a mobile phone, and chargers. COVID-19 test kits and Betsy's thyroid medication were among the various healthcare articles found. Feces and urine tarnished one toilet bowl, while another room divulged a bloodied pillow. Headlines now blare with revelations, including assertions like "Gene Hackman's medical report finds 'infested' home a 'breeding ground' for hantavirus." The tragic end for Gene Hackman's wife is traced as a desperate search for answers on the day she died comes to light, with reports of "Gene Hackman mystery bombshells from bizarre phone call to disturbing home update." Investigators came upon mounds of clothing inside the home, some freshly dry-cleaned and still in their protective coverings, neat stacks of shoe boxes in a wardrobe, and various items strewn about the floor. The kitchen appeared more orderly compared to the rest of the house but was overflowing with foodstuffs, some starting to spoil on the counters. Bodycam footage from deputies documented their search through the sprawling property and into the numerous rooms where the bodies of the couple were found. One of their pet dogs lingered near Betsy's body, sparingly shown in the video, while officers first stepped foot in the home. A hushed comment from an officer, "They say they're very private people, like very," added to the grim scene unfolded at the couple's estate. This is an undated image provided by the Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office during the course of their investigation and search of the home of Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa, where the two were found dead Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025, in Santa Fe, New Mexico (Image: AP) Every corner seemed to show evidence of a rodent issue—spotted across three garages, two casitas, and a trio of shelters. Encounters with these unwanted guests varied: one alive, one dead, and even a nest nestled within different outbuildings. The vehicles parked on site didn't escape either, with clear signs of infestation, and a wealth of live traps scattered throughout suggested the magnitude of the pest problem. After the sad details emerged, friends of the respected actor revealed that he and his wife had been privately interred, remembered in a private funeral service attended only by family-including Gene's three children and close friends. Their love story began in the mid-'80s and blossomed as they moved in together, eventually seeking the tranquility of New Mexico. Gene's film career was a diverse mix of roles, starting in 1961 with Mad Dog Coll. However, his most unforgettable performances include playing the villainous Lex Luthor in Superman and a redemption-seeking coach in the heartwarming classic Hoosiers. The state of Gene Hackman's home has shocked fans (Image: (Image: Santa Fe Sheriff's Office)) With five Oscar nominations to his credit, Gene won the best actor award for The French Connection in '72 and the best-supporting actor two decades later for Unforgiven. He then retired from the limelight to enjoy a quiet life in New Mexico. Betsy was born in Hawaii in December 1959 and spent her early years in Honolulu. She pursued piano studies and, at just 11 years old as a sixth-grader, she showcased her talent in youth concerts at the Honolulu International Center Concert Hall, mesmerizing thousands of students, according to a 1971 report by the Honolulu Star-Bulletin. For all the latest news straight to your inbox, sign up for our FREE newsletters here . She continued her education at the University of Southern California and supported the Aztecs, a professional soccer team in the North American Soccer League. Betsy also gained industry experience working as a production assistant on the TV game show Card Sharks. As per business records in New Mexico, Betsy held the position of vice president at Pandora's, a Santa Fe-based store specialising in home decor and furnishings. For the latest local news and features on Irish America, visit our homepage here .
Yahoo
17-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Gene Hackman Fans 'Disgusted' by Release of 'Private' Love Letters
Fans are rallying in defense of the late Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa after law enforcement released the content of "private," personal love letters penned between the couple. The Santa Fe Sheriff's Office has released photographs of just a few of the notes written to and from the actor and his wife that were found throughout their home following their untimely deaths back in February, sparking unending speculation across the world about what happened to the couple. While many were touched by the "very sweet" sentiments contained within the messages, several were left unsettled over the invasion of privacy they felt came along with reading the intimate notes that were reposted on social media by TMZ. "Unbelievable! These are private and should remain private!" one commented on the publication's Instagram account. "This is disgusting! Not our business at all!" someone else declared, while another bluntly questioned, "Why are these being broadcasted?" "Some things should stay private," another commenter insisted, as others suggested, "Can yall just let them RIP?" and, "Let this couple rest. Not everything is meant for everyone to see ❤️ 🙏🏽." "These are very sweet," somebody else admitted, "but shouldn't have been broadcast to the world after they died. 🤷🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️." "That's private," another insisted, calling their release "tactless and tasteless." The couple was found deceased alongside one of their three pet dogs on Wednesday, Feb. 26, sparking a very public investigation that discovered Arawaka died of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, likely several days before Hackman, who was suffering from Alzheimer's disease, died. Hackman's cause of death was labeled as hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiac disease.
The Independent
20-03-2025
- Health
- The Independent
Clinic says Gene Hackman's wife called them the day after police thought she died
Authorities investigating the deaths of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa have made a new discovery that changes the timeline of events. Arakawa had previously been believed to have died on the evening of February 11, the last day she was seen in public. However, the Santa Fe Sheriff's Office has now learned that on the morning of February 12, she made a phone call to Cloudberry Health, a local medical concierge service that allows patients to speak to credentialed doctors. Speaking to Good Morning America , Santa Fe Sheriff Adan Mendoza said: 'That would indicate to me that she was seeking medical advice or medical help and may have not been feeling well.' Good Morning America contacted Cloudberry, who confirmed that Betsy had phoned them to inquire about what they called an 'esoteric treatment' that morning. The medical service also said they detected no indication of breathing issues or distress during the call. They say they called back twice to follow up but their calls went unanswered. Betsy Arakawa and Gene Hackman, who had been married since 1991, were found dead at their home in Santa Fe, New Mexico last month (Alamy/PA) Earlier this month, Dr Heather Jarrell, Chief Medical Examiner at the Office of the Medical Investigator in Santa Fe, announced that 65-year-old Arakawa's cause of death was hantavirus — a rare illness contracted via contact with rodents like rats and mice. Meanwhile, 95-year-old Hackman's death was tied to heart disease with Alzheimer's disease contributing. 'He was in a very poor state of health. He had significant heart disease, and I think ultimately that's what resulted in his death,' Jarrell said. Authorities are relatively confident that Hackman died on February 18 due to activity recorded on his pacemaker. They had previously believed that Arakawa died a full week earlier, but that theory has been contradicted by this new evidence. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. £8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 days New subscribers only. £8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free Establishing the exact timeline could be significant in determining the fate of Hackman's estimated $80 million estate. It has emerged Hackman left his entire estate to his Arakawa. Hackman's will, drawn up in 1995, makes no mention of his three children, son Christopher and daughters Leslie and Elizabeth. In her own will, Arakawa left most of her assets to Hackman. However, the document also reportedly includes a clause stating that if the couple died within 90 days of each other, it would be considered a simultaneous death and all her assets would be donated to charity. Hackman's son Christopher has reportedly already hired Andrew M. Katzenstein, a prominent California trust and estate attorney, which could indicate he plans to challenge his father's will.
