In a tragic and mysterious turn of events, legendary actor Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 64, were discovered dead at their Santa Fe mansion, with their bodies showing signs of partial mummification.

The bodies were found by two maintenance workers, Roland Lowe Begay and Jesse Kesler, on Wednesday at approximately 1:46 p.m. Mountain Time. They hadn’t seen the couple for nearly two weeks, raising concerns that the pair may have been deceased for some time.

Hackman, the two-time Oscar-winning star of The French Connection and Unforgiven, and his wife were found in a state of decomposition. Arakawa, whose body showed signs of bloating and mummification, was found in the bathroom, with an open prescription bottle and pills scattered on the countertop.

The exact nature of the pills has not been disclosed, and it is unclear whether they were prescribed to either Hackman or Arakawa. A space heater, found next to Arakawa’s head, could provide a clue into the circumstances surrounding her death, with investigators suggesting it may have fallen.

Hackman was discovered in a mud room off the kitchen, fully clothed in gray sweatpants, a blue long-sleeve shirt, and brown slippers. His walking cane and sunglasses were found beside him, which may indicate a sudden fall.

There were no signs of forced entry into the house, and firefighters who responded found no indication of a gas leak. Hackman’s daughter, Elizabeth, had speculated that a carbon monoxide leak might have caused the deaths, though investigators have not confirmed this.

Adding to the mystery, one of the couple’s dogs, a German Shepherd, was found dead about 10 to 15 feet away from Arakawa, while the other two dogs were unharmed. One surviving dog was found near Betsy’s body, while the second was seen roaming the property. Investigators have noted the case as suspicious, with a thorough investigation underway.

The hideaway properties of Gene Hackman in Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe’s dry, cold climate during winter is known to aid in the natural process of mummification, which may explain the preservation of the couple’s bodies. Despite the unusual condition in which they were found, authorities have stated there is no immediate indication of foul play.

Hackman, who had retired from acting in 2004, had become a recluse in the last two decades of his life, choosing a quiet existence in Santa Fe. Known for his versatile roles, Hackman was a beloved figure in Hollywood, with a career that spanned decades. He was frequently spotted enjoying the peaceful surroundings of his adopted home, often seen riding his bicycle or sharing occasional glimpses of his life with friends and fans.

Hackman’s death comes just days before this year’s Academy Awards, a somber coincidence considering his monumental contributions to film. His death, along with the untimely passing of his wife, marks the end of a significant era in Hollywood history.

The Santa Fe Sheriff’s Department continues to investigate the deaths, and while foul play is not suspected, the mysterious circumstances surrounding the discovery have left many unanswered questions. As the investigation progresses, the public waits for further details on what happened to one of Hollywood’s most respected stars and his wife.

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