The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office has released body camera footage detailing the investigation into the deaths of Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman, his wife Betsy Arakawa Hackman, and their dog at their home in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The tragic discovery occurred on February 26, after deputies responded to a call at the couple’s multi-million dollar residence, where they were found deceased.
Gene Hackman, 95, and Betsy, 65, were known for their reclusive lifestyle, residing in a $3.3 million property in a quiet area of Santa Fe. The footage reveals deputies entering the home, guns drawn, as they sought to understand the circumstances surrounding the couple’s deaths. Betsy was located in a bathroom, her body visible through a window, while Gene was found in a mudroom near a door, accompanied by his cane and sunglasses.
Initial investigations indicated no signs of foul play, though deputies expressed concern for the couple’s German Shepherds, who were also on the property. As the search progressed, deputies discovered that Betsy had died on February 12, as evidenced by surveillance footage of her shopping for groceries the day before. In the days leading up to her passing, Betsy had conducted multiple online searches regarding flu and COVID-19 symptoms and had contacted a local clinic, indicating a potential health issue.
The New Mexico Department of Health later confirmed that Betsy succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare disease transmitted by rodents, with only a few cases reported in the state over the past 50 years. Gene Hackman survived his wife by nearly a week, with his official cause of death determined to be a combination of Alzheimer’s disease and heart disease.
The body camera footage also captured deputies discussing a possible gas leak in the house, although autopsy results later ruled out carbon monoxide poisoning as a factor in the couple’s deaths. A gas leak was indeed discovered in the kitchen, but it was not linked to the fatalities.
Alongside the body cam footage, the sheriff’s office released photographs of notes exchanged between the couple, providing insight into their private lives. One note from Gene expressed belated birthday wishes to Betsy, while another indicated her plans for the day, showcasing the closeness of their relationship.
After the investigation, which revealed no evidence of wrongdoing, the Hackman family held a small private funeral in New Mexico. Gene’s three adult children, who had not been in contact with him during his final years, attended the service to pay their respects.
As the community reflects on the lives of Gene and Betsy Hackman, their story serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of health and relationships, even among those who chose a life of privacy and seclusion.