Authorities in Santa Fe, New Mexico, continue to investigate the deaths of actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, who were found deceased in their home on February 26. Santa Fe Fire Chief Brian Moya has offered his perspective on the possible timeline of their deaths, suggesting that the couple may have passed away around the same time.
Moya, who was not a first responder to the scene, stated in an interview with Fox News Digital that both bodies were found in a similar condition, which could indicate they had died within the same timeframe. The Hackman property, spanning over 9,000 square feet and consisting of three structures, was thoroughly examined for gas leaks. However, Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza confirmed during a press conference that Hackman and Arakawa tested negative for carbon monoxide exposure.
Authorities are continuing to work through the evidence to determine the cause of death. One key piece of information is the last recorded activity on Hackman’s pacemaker, which was on February 17. Investigators suspect this may have been the last day the actor was alive, as his body was not discovered for nine days.
The couple was found in the same building on the property, along with one of their dogs, later identified as Zinna. Maintenance workers Jesse Kesler and Roland Lowe Begay, who had long-standing ties to the household, discovered the bodies and placed the 911 call that brought authorities to the scene.
Santa Fe authorities have classified the case as “suspicious enough in nature” to warrant a full investigation. Detectives obtained a search warrant and recovered two cell phones, an orange prescription bottle, and a 2025 planner from the residence. Officials have not disclosed whether these items play a significant role in determining the events leading up to Hackman and Arakawa’s deaths.
Autopsy details included in the search warrant affidavit describe the condition of both bodies, noting signs of decomposition, including bloating and mummification. The affidavit also indicates that Hackman may have “suddenly fallen” at the time of his death, but no official cause has been determined.
Authorities initially misidentified the deceased dog found near Arakawa. Investigators originally described the animal as a brown German Shepherd but later confirmed it was Zinna, a mixed-breed dog. The pet was found inside a kennel in a bathroom closet, approximately 10 to 15 feet away from Arakawa’s body. The couple owned two German Shepherds named Bear and Nikita, both of whom were found alive and taken to a local pet care facility.
The Santa Fe Fire Department was last involved in the investigation on February 27, after which the case was fully transferred to the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office. Moya noted that during his three-year tenure as fire chief, emergency services had never previously responded to a call at the Hackman residence.
As authorities continue to piece together evidence, no official determination has been made regarding the circumstances of the couple’s deaths. Investigators are reviewing all available information to establish a clearer timeline and cause of death.
I’m so glad The Oscars paid special tribute to Gene Hackman, and Morgan Freeman was absolutely the right man for the job. Absolute Legends. #Oscars #GeneHackmanpic.twitter.com/DPKUeCsUdm
— The Sting (@TheStingisBack) March 3, 2025
