Gene Hackman and Wife Betsy Arakawa Suspected Victims of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were found deceased this week, with family members suspecting carbon monoxide poisoning as the cause, TMZ has reported.
Their daughter, Elizabeth Jean Hackman, stated that while the official cause of death has yet to be confirmed, toxic fumes are believed to have played a role.
Authorities have found no evidence of foul play. Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza confirmed that investigations are ongoing and all possibilities remain under consideration.
The couple was discovered at their contemporary New Mexico residence on Wednesday, along with one of their dogs, after a concerned neighbor requested a welfare check. The home, constructed in 2000, has no known history of gas leaks or maintenance issues.
During the search, fire department and gas company personnel were present to ensure the safety of law enforcement officers.
Gene, 95, and Betsy had resided in their New Mexico home since his retirement in 2004. He spent much of his time painting, and according to Elizabeth, his favorite film remained The French Connection.
