Unclaimed: The Bodies of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa After a Month
The unexpected passing of celebrated actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, has left many concerned as their bodies remain unclaimed over a month after their deaths.
Circumstances Surrounding Their Deaths
Authorities discovered the couple deceased in their New Mexico residence on February 26, following a welfare check conducted by neighborhood security. Hackman, aged 95, and Arakawa, 65, were found alongside their dog, prompting an investigation into the nature of their deaths.
Initially, there was speculation regarding the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning due to a gas leak. However, this theory was quickly dismissed following an extensive investigation by the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office and the New Mexico Gas Company, which found no evidence of dangerous gas levels in their home.
Confirmed Causes of Death
On March 8, investigators announced the confirmed causes of death for both Hackman and Arakawa. It was revealed that Arakawa succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), a serious illness caused by exposure to infected rodents. Additionally, analysis of data from Hackman’s pacemaker indicated that he passed away on February 18, a week after Arakawa’s death.
Unclaimed Bodies and Family Arrangements
As of March 27, reports indicated that both Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa’s bodies remained unclaimed, despite efforts by news outlets, such as TMZ, to verify the status with the Office of Medical Investigators in New Mexico. Reports suggest that the couple’s family may still be finalizing funeral arrangements.
Gene Hackman had three children—Christopher, Elizabeth Jean, and Leslie Anne—from his previous marriage to Faye Maltese, who passed away in 2017. Interestingly, Hackman’s will named Arakawa as the sole recipient of his estate, which has raised questions about the family’s arrangements following his and his wife’s deaths. In a joint statement, Hackman’s children expressed their devastation, stating: “He was loved and admired by millions around the world for his brilliant acting career, but to us, he was always just Dad and Grandpa. We will miss him sorely, and are devastated by the loss.”
A Legacy of Acclaimed Work
Gene Hackman’s illustrious career spanned over six decades, featuring standout performances in iconic films such as:
- The French Connection (1971)
- The Conversation (1974)
- Superman (1978)
- Mississippi Burning (1988)
- Unforgiven (1992)
- The Royal Tenenbaums (2001)
Hackman officially retired from acting in 2008, with his final feature film being Welcome to Mooseport in 2003, where he shared the screen with Ray Romano.
Conclusion
The deaths of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa continue to raise concerns and unanswered questions as the couple’s bodies remain unclaimed after more than a month. As family arrangements come to light, their legacy within Hollywood remains firmly intact.
