The investigation into the deaths of legendary Hollywood actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 

has revealed that the 95-year-old star’s pacemaker stopped tracking his heart activity more than a week before the couple was discovered.

During a press conference, Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza stated, “An initial interrogation was conducted of Mr. Hackman’s pacemaker. 

This revealed that his last event was recorded on Feb. 17, 2025.” 

Authorities are now working on a more detailed examination of the device to determine whether it can provide further insights into his final moments.

The preliminary findings suggest that Hackman likely passed away on the same day his pacemaker recorded its last activity. 

However, officials have yet to determine an official cause of death for either Hackman or Arakawa.

Investigation Finds No Signs of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

The possibility that the couple died due to carbon monoxide poisoning had initially been considered. However, Mendoza confirmed that both individuals tested negative for the gas. “We have ruled out carbon monoxide poisoning based on our initial findings,” he stated.

While authorities are still piecing together the timeline of events, it remains unclear whether Hackman or Arakawa passed away first. “The condition of the bodies and other evidence make it difficult to determine an exact sequence of events,” Mendoza explained.

Santa Fe Fire Chief Brian Moya, who was also present at the press conference, refrained from making additional comments but confirmed that his department had conducted thorough checks for any gas leaks or hazardous conditions in the home.

Discovery of Hackman and Arakawa’s Bodies

Hackman, his wife, and one of their three dogs were found dead inside their New Mexico residence on February 26, 2025. The couple was discovered by a maintenance worker who had arrived to perform routine work at the property. Concerned after receiving no response, the worker contacted neighborhood security, who then conducted a welfare check.

Upon peering through a window, security personnel saw Hackman and Arakawa lying unresponsive inside the home and immediately contacted emergency services. When law enforcement officers arrived, they found the front door unlocked and noted no signs of forced entry or foul play.

Authorities have classified the deaths as “suspicious,” but Mendoza reiterated that there was no immediate indication of criminal activity. Investigators are continuing to analyze the evidence while awaiting full autopsy results.

Arakawa Found Near Scattered Pills, Hackman Appeared to Have Fallen

According to a search warrant, Arakawa, 64, was found lying on the bathroom floor, with medication bottles and pills scattered on a nearby counter. Her body had begun to decompose, with signs of “mummification” visible on her hands and feet, as well as bloating in her face.

“This is an important part of the investigation,” Mendoza said regarding the scattered medication. “We are looking into what medications were in the home and whether they played a role in the events leading to their deaths.”

Authorities also recovered multiple prescription medications, including Tylenol, a thyroid medication, and Diltiazem, a drug used to treat high blood pressure and chest pain. However, due to medical privacy laws, officials have not disclosed further details about their prescriptions.

Hackman, meanwhile, was found in a separate room near the kitchen. Authorities suspect he may have collapsed, as his sunglasses were found beside his body. The exact cause of his death remains unknown pending further examination.

Animal Control Rescues Surviving Dogs

One of the couple’s three dogs was found deceased inside a crate or kennel in a closet. A forensic pathologist suggested that the animal likely died from dehydration after being unable to access food or water.

Two other dogs were found alive in different areas of the property. Animal control officers, in coordination with Hackman and Arakawa’s family members, ensured that the surviving pets were safely removed and placed under care.

Full Autopsy Results Expected in Coming Weeks

Authorities are still awaiting the final autopsy and toxicology reports, which are expected to provide more clarity regarding the circumstances of Hackman and Arakawa’s deaths. Mendoza stated, “We believe the autopsy results will be key to understanding what happened.”

Forensic experts also noted that environmental conditions inside the home, such as temperature and humidity, may have influenced the rate of decomposition.

Family Issues Statement

Following the heartbreaking discovery, Hackman’s daughters, Elizabeth and Leslie, along with his granddaughter, Annie, released a statement expressing their grief.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Gene Hackman, and his wife, Betsy. He was loved and admired by millions around the world for his brilliant acting career, but to us, he was always just Dad and Grandpa. We will miss him sorely and are devastated by the loss.”

As one of Hollywood’s most revered actors, Hackman’s passing marks the end of an era. Best known for his roles in classics such as The French Connection, Unforgiven, and The Royal Tenenbaums, he leaves behind a legacy of extraordinary performances.

Authorities continue to investigate the couple’s mysterious deaths, with further updates expected as more details emerge.

Follow us to see more useful information, as well as to give us more motivation to update more useful information for you.