Carbon Monoxide was ruled out.
Gene Hackman, the two-time Oscar-winning actor, was found dead at 95 in his Santa Fe, New Mexico, home, along with his 65-year-old wife, Betsy Arakawa, and one of their dogs. It has been a week since their tragic discovery, and the Santa Fe Sheriff’s Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding their deaths. One of the first major updates came from the New Mexico Gas Company, which confirmed it conducted a thorough check for gas leaks and carbon monoxide at the couple’s residence. However, they reported no significant findings, although a small gas leak (0.33% gas in the air) was detected at one of the stove burners, which was not a lethal amount.
In addition to the minor gas leak, four code violations were identified, including issues related to the water heater and gas log lighters in the fireplaces. Despite these findings, carbon monoxide poisoning has been ruled out as the cause of death for Hackman and Arakawa. Sheriff Adan Mendoza described the situation as “suspicious,” requiring a comprehensive investigation. Hackman’s body was found in the mudroom, appearing as though he had suddenly fallen, while Arakawa was discovered in a bathroom.
Authorities believe Hackman may have died around February 17, based on data from his pacemaker, which recorded its last event on that date. Sheriff Mendoza acknowledged that the investigation is challenging, noting that the timeline of events is being reconstructed in reverse, starting from the time of death and autopsy results and working backward.
During the Oscars, actor Morgan Freeman paid tribute to Hackman, recognizing him as one of the greatest actors in Hollywood history. As the investigation continues, Hackman’s legacy remains, and his family, friends, and fans are left hoping for answers about the mysterious circumstances of his passing.
