Gene Hackman Death Twist: Pills Near Wife Spark Foul Play Fears

The mysterious deaths of Hollywood icon Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 65, in their Santa Fe home have taken a new turn as investigators uncover “important evidence.”

Sources tell PEOPLE that prescription pills found near Arakawa’s body, alongside other medications in their gated ranch, are under scrutiny. Sheriff Adan Mendoza calls the scene unusual, refusing to rule out foul play despite no signs of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Hackman’s body lay near the doorway, while Arakawa was face-up in the bathroom beside scattered pills. A dead dog in a kennel nearby adds to the puzzle. Friends like Daniel Lenihan note Hackman’s declining health, saying he’d been homebound for months, rarely biking as he once did. Arakawa, his devoted partner, supported him closely, their bond evident to Lenihan’s son, Aaron.

Prescription Pills Raise Questions

Mendoza highlights the pills as critical, found near Arakawa with more seized from the home. He told reporters it’s not typical to find two people and a pet deceased like this, fueling concern.

Hackman’s pacemaker stopped Feb. 17, hinting at his death date, though experts caution it’s not conclusive. Transitioning to speculation, the ongoing probe keeps all options open, with toxicology results pending.

Health Decline Precedes Mystery

Lenihan recalls Hackman’s frailty, a stark shift from his active past. Arakawa’s dedication shone through, propping him up in his final months. Dr. Philip Keen, a retired coroner, suggests the pacemaker’s halt might mark Hackman’s end, but it’s no sure bet—some rely on it less than others.

For now, the cause remains unclear, leaving Santa Fe and fans grappling with a haunting enigma.

Jaja Agpalo

Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Jaja’s career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including Business Times and Brigada. As a news editor, she covered a wide range of beats, including business, economy, cryptocurrency, and personal finance. Additionally, she has successfully managed teams of writers producing content on gaming, technology, and entertainment.