Gene Hackman and Wife's Passing: Mystery Deepens

Amid an ongoing investigation into their mysterious deaths, 95-year-old actor Gene Hackman and his 65-year-old wife, Betsy Arakawa, have tested negative for carbon monoxide exposure, as authorities divulged on Friday. The couple, along with one of their dogs, was found lifeless at their Santa Fe home.

Sheriff Rules Out Carbon Monoxide

Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza has stated that carbon monoxide poisoning is not the cause. Hackman's last recorded activity via his pacemaker occurred on February 17, suggesting his demise happened nine days before their discovery, though the timing of Arakawa's death remains uncertain.

The exact causes of their deaths and the manner in which they occurred are still under investigation. Full autopsy and toxicological results are anticipated, though they could take months.

Exploring the Scene: Unexpected Discoveries

The household was visited by deputies on a welfare check after the couple's absence was noted. They found no clear cause of death initially. The unusual nature of the situation prompted a detailed inquiry, guided by the absence of external injuries.

Authorities performed carbon monoxide testing, due to the context of their discovery, but the results were negative. Despite this, complete confirmation from the New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator is pending.

Personal Effects and Home Details

Items retrieved from the scene included two phones and various medications alongside personal records. Hackman was found lying flat in the mudroom, whereas Arakawa's body, showing decomposition signs, was located in a bathroom.

Nearby, a scattered prescription bottle was discovered, with a deceased German shepherd in close proximity, though two other dogs had survived—possibly accessing a doggy door.

Ruling Out Potential Hazards

Both the local fire department and New Mexico Gas Company found no evidence of gas or carbon monoxide leaks within the residence, eliminating worries about household gas problems.

The mystery is deepened as workers had not interacted with Hackman or Arakawa for a notable period before the bodies were uncovered. The home showed no signs of forced entry.

Continuing the Investigation

Even lacking obvious indications of foul play, investigators have refused to rule out criminal activity. The inquiry remains broad, considering all scenarios as they seek clarity on this cryptic case.