Why did Gene Hackman’s death go unnoticed for over a week? SHOCKING details emerge

New Delhi: Hollywood has lost another legend under eerie circumstances. Gene Hackman, the two-time Academy Award-winning actor, was found dead alongside his wife, Betsy Arakawa, at their New Mexico home.

Authorities now reveal that Hackman’s pacemaker data suggests he had been dead for nine days before being discovered. The couple’s demise has left more questions than answers, prompting a full investigation into their deaths.

Gene Hackman’s last recorded moment

According to Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza, Hackman’s pacemaker recorded its “last event” on February 17. This timeline aligns with investigators’ belief that both Hackman, 95, and Arakawa, 61, had been deceased for days before maintenance workers found them. Their deaths have been deemed “suspicious enough” to warrant a thorough probe, even though preliminary autopsies show no signs of foul play or external trauma.

Hackman and Arakawa’s bodies were found in separate rooms in their remote residence. Arakawa was discovered in the bathroom with scattered pills near her, while Hackman was found near the kitchen, with a walking cane and sunglasses beside him. A German shepherd was also found dead inside a crate. However, two other dogs were found alive on the property, adding to the mystery.

Authorities removed several items from the scene, including two green cellular devices, medications such as Diltiazem (used for blood pressure), Tylenol, a 2025 planner, and records from MyQuest, a medical diagnostics service. While no gas or carbon monoxide leaks were detected, toxicology tests are pending to determine if any substances played a role in their deaths.

The discovery of the bodies was made after a maintenance worker saw two lifeless figures through a window and called 911. As reported by CNN, the chilling call revealed the worker’s panic: “No, dude, they’re not moving. Just send somebody out here really quick.” The scene inside suggested the couple had been dead for at least a week, with signs of decomposition and mummification in Arakawa’s hands and feet.

What could have happened?

Investigators have not yet determined if the couple died simultaneously or days apart. Experts suggest that pinpointing an exact time of death will be difficult, even with a full autopsy. Medical examiners are relying on electronic records, phone activity, and environmental clues—like uncollected mail or security camera footage—to piece together the timeline.

Dr. Kendall Crowns, a forensic investigator, noted, “Under ideal conditions, you can estimate time of death, but those conditions are rarely met.” Toxicology reports, which could take months, may provide crucial insights.

Who were Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa?

Gene Hackman was an acting powerhouse, known for his rugged yet nuanced performances. His Oscar-winning roles in The French Connection (1971) and Unforgiven (1992) cemented his place in cinematic history. Other notable films include Hoosiers, The Firm, and The Royal Tenenbaums. Despite his fame, he lived a reclusive life in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

Betsy Arakawa, a classical pianist, shared a three-decade-long marriage with Hackman. The couple moved to Santa Fe over a decade ago, where they enjoyed a low-profile existence. Their home was located in a gated community with expansive mountain views and was an oasis of privacy—perhaps too much so, given the delayed discovery of their deaths.

Oscars to honor Gene Hackman

The news of Hackman’s passing comes just days before the 2025 Academy Awards. The Oscars are expected to honor the actor’s immense contribution to cinema, possibly through an In Memoriam tribute or a special mention from host Conan O’Brien.

Fans and celebrities have poured in tributes, remembering Hackman’s electrifying performances and enigmatic presence. New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham acknowledged his impact, saying, “For decades, Gene chose Santa Fe as his home, living among us not as a Hollywood icon but as a low-key and friendly member of our community.” Santa Fe Mayor Alan Webber echoed the sentiment, noting Hackman’s humility despite his global fame.