The ongoing investigation into the tragic deaths of legendary actor Gene Hackman and his wife, 

Betsy Arakawa, remains underway as authorities work to piece together the circumstances surrounding their passing. 

More than a week after their bodies were discovered at their New Mexico estate, officials are preparing to provide an update at a joint press conference.

The Santa Fe Sheriff’s Department has confirmed that the media briefing—set for Friday—will include representatives from the state’s medical investigator and health offices. 

This announcement comes amid growing public curiosity, as emerging details paint a concerning picture of the events leading up to the couple’s deaths.

Disturbing Details Emerge

The bodies of Hackman, 94, and Arakawa, 62, were found on February 26, along with one of their dogs. While Hollywood mourned the loss of the acclaimed actor, reports have surfaced indicating that he may have passed away days before his body was discovered.

Data retrieved from Hackman’s pacemaker suggests he died more than a week prior to being found, according to law enforcement sources. Additionally, a search warrant revealed that Arakawa was located in a bathroom near a space heater, with an open prescription bottle and scattered pills visible on the countertop.

Santa Fe Fire Chief Brian Moya commented on the timeline, stating that both individuals appeared to have died within a short period of one another. “Both bodies were found in a similar manner, which suggests the timeframe of their deaths could be close,” he explained.

Authorities initially misreported the breed of the deceased dog found with the couple, stating it was a German shepherd. However, it was later confirmed that the pet was actually Zinna, a 12-year-old Australian Kelpie. The German shepherd previously mentioned was, in fact, safe.

Family Awaits Answers

As investigators work to determine the cause of death, Hackman’s family has refrained from speculation, choosing instead to await official findings.

“We’re waiting on toxicology results. That will tell us everything,” Hackman’s nephew, Tim Hackman, stated. “There are many theories out there, but I don’t want to speculate. It’s easy to assume the worst, but for now, the family wants to focus on staying positive. When we know the truth, we will process it accordingly.”

The actor’s daughters, Elizabeth and Leslie Hackman, along with his granddaughter, Annie, issued a heartfelt statement expressing their sorrow.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Gene Hackman, and his wife, Betsy,” they shared. “He was admired by millions for his incredible career, but to us, he was simply Dad and Grandpa. We will miss him dearly.”

A Life Away from the Spotlight

In the later years of his life, Hackman and Arakawa had retreated from Hollywood, opting for a quieter existence in Santa Fe. The two had built a life together in the artistic community, where Hackman explored his passions for painting and writing while Arakawa, a pianist, continued to pursue music.

Their home, located just north of the city, was a unique blend of traditional Santa Fe architecture with the couple’s personal artistic influence woven into its design. Hackman, who had largely stepped away from acting after his final film role in Welcome to Mooseport (2004), enjoyed a peaceful existence in the region, surrounded by creativity and culture.

Investigation Continues

Authorities have already ruled out a gas leak as a potential cause, though officials have acknowledged that the circumstances appear unusual. Despite this, law enforcement maintains that no foul play is suspected at this time.

As the world remembers Hackman for his incredible contributions to film, fans and loved ones eagerly await further updates from investigators. The upcoming press conference is expected to provide more clarity on what led to the loss of the beloved actor and his wife, helping to answer lingering questions surrounding this tragic event.

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