Authorities have confiscated multiple items, including prescription medications and electronic devices, from the New Mexico residence 

where legendary actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were found dead earlier this week.

Investigation Uncovers Key Evidence

According to reports, law enforcement retrieved three types of medications from the couple’s home: Tylenol, a thyroid medication, 

and Diltiazem—a calcium channel blocker commonly prescribed for high blood pressure and chest pain. 

Alongside these, authorities also took possession of two green cell phones, a 2025 monthly planner, and medical records from MyQuest, a diagnostic services provider. 

These items were listed in the search warrant’s return and inventory section.

While Hackman, 95, and Arakawa, 64, showed no signs of external trauma, authorities deemed their deaths “suspicious” enough to warrant a full investigation. However, foul play is not currently suspected.

Discovery of the Bodies and Initial Findings

The couple was discovered in their home on Wednesday afternoon by maintenance workers. Hackman’s body was found near the kitchen, while Arakawa was located in the bathroom, with prescription pills scattered on the countertop.

Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza emphasized that the spilled medication could be crucial evidence in piecing together the events leading to their deaths. “We’re looking at that specifically and other medications that were possibly in the residence,” he stated in an interview. “So that is something of concern.”

Arakawa’s body showed signs of decomposition, including bloating in her face and mummification in her hands and feet. Additionally, one of the couple’s beloved German Shepherds was found dead nearby, reportedly inside a crate or kennel, approximately 10 to 15 feet from her body.

Estimating the Time of Death

Investigators believe Hackman and Arakawa may have passed away several days—or even up to two weeks—before they were discovered. However, determining the exact timing remains a challenge.

“It’s very hard to determine if they both passed at the same time or how close they passed together,” Sheriff Mendoza noted. Detectives are analyzing phone records, missed mail deliveries, and other available data to establish a timeline of events.

Awaiting Autopsy and Toxicology Results

While preliminary findings have provided some clues, the autopsy and toxicology reports are expected to play a crucial role in determining the exact cause of death. Authorities are carefully examining whether the medications found at the scene played any role in their passing.

Despite Hackman’s advanced age, his daughter, Leslie Hackman, described him as being in “very good physical condition.” She revealed that the French Connection star regularly practiced Pilates and yoga several times a week, emphasizing that he remained active and in good health.

A Lasting Legacy

Gene Hackman, a two-time Academy Award-winning actor, was best known for his roles in iconic films such as The French Connection, Unforgiven, and The Royal Tenenbaums. He retired from acting in 2004, dedicating his later years to writing novels and enjoying a quiet life with his wife in New Mexico.

Arakawa, a classical pianist, had been by his side since they married in 1991. The couple maintained a private life, far from the Hollywood spotlight.

As the investigation continues, fans and colleagues alike mourn the loss of the celebrated actor and his wife, awaiting further details on the circumstances surrounding their tragic passing.

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