Sheriff Adan Mosa provided an update on the investigation into the deaths of actor Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa, found deceased in their home. Initial findings show no signs of foul play, and autopsy results are pending. The investigation is ongoing, focusing on timelines and potential causes of death.
On February 26, 2025, Sheriff Adan Mosa of Santa Fe County, New Mexico, held a press conference to provide details regarding the tragic discovery of actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa. Both were found deceased in their home, raising numerous questions about the circumstances surrounding their deaths.
At approximately 1:45 p.m. on the day of the incident, deputies were dispatched to 1425 Old Sunset Trail after a maintenance worker, concerned by the lack of response from the residents, contacted neighborhood security. Upon checking the premises, security personnel observed both Hackman and Arakawa unresponsive through a window and promptly called 911.
Upon arrival, deputies gained access to the residence and confirmed the deaths of both individuals. A German Shepherd was also found deceased, while two other dogs appeared to be healthy and were secured by the Santa Fe Animal Control division.
Due to the unusual circumstances of two deceased individuals in the home, the scene was secured, and the Criminal Investigations Division was notified. Fire personnel and the New Mexico Gas Company were called to test for carbon monoxide or other hazardous elements, but the scene was deemed safe.
A search warrant was executed later that evening, leading to the collection of several items for evidentiary purposes, including:
On February 27, 2025, both Hackman and Arakawa were transported to the Office of the Medical Investigator for autopsies. Initial findings indicated no external trauma to either individual, and the cause and manner of death remain undetermined. The official autopsy and toxicology results are still pending.
Dr. Jerel, the pathologist from the New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator, confirmed that both individuals tested negative for carbon monoxide. Additionally, an interrogation of Hackman's pacemaker revealed that its last recorded event was on February 17, 2025.
Sheriff Mosa emphasized that the investigation is active and ongoing. Investigators are working to piece together a timeline leading up to the deaths, which includes:
When asked about the timeline of events, Sheriff Mosa noted that determining who died first is challenging and remains a focus of the investigation. The sheriff also mentioned that there is currently no surveillance video available from the residence that could assist in establishing a timeline.
The medications found at the scene are considered crucial evidence, as they may provide insights into the cause of death. However, due to HIPAA regulations, the sheriff refrained from disclosing specific details about the medications or who they were prescribed to.
As the investigation continues, Sheriff Mosa assured the public that updates will be provided as more information becomes available. The tragic deaths of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa have raised significant interest and concern, and authorities are committed to uncovering the truth behind this incident.
The community is urged to remain patient as investigators work diligently to determine the circumstances surrounding the deaths of these two private individuals.
