Why Will Gene Hackman and Wife’s Death Case Remain Open?

Despite the official cause of death for film legend Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, being confirmed, their case will remain open.

While authorities have ruled their deaths as natural and not criminal, the Santa Fe Sheriff’s Office is continuing to investigate several unanswered questions.

Here is why.

Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa Cause of Death

Although the causes of death for Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa have been confirmed, the investigation remains open. The couple was found dead in their Santa Fe home on February 26, with details of their passing released on March 7 after weeks of speculation.

Film legend Gene Hackman, whose career spanned over four decades, passed away from cardiovascular disease, with Alzheimer’s disease also playing a significant role, according to Dr. Heather Jarrell of the New Mexico Medical Investigator’s Office.

Investigation Continues

It is believed that 95-year-old actor Gene Hackman died on February 18, a week after his wife, classical pianist Betsy Arakawa, passed away from Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, an airborne virus transmitted through infected rodent droppings or saliva.

Betsy Arakawa, 65, is believed to have died on February 11, and authorities think Gene Hackman may not have known of her passing due to his deteriorating health. Dr. Jarrell noted that Hackman showed signs of advanced Alzheimer’s disease and significant heart disease. This is what ultimately led to his death.

Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa Cause of Death

While the causes of death for Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa were confirmed as natural and not criminal, Santa Fe Sheriff Adam Mendoza stated the case would remain open. This is in order to address any remaining uncertainties, as investigators work to “close the loopholes.”

Police are awaiting the results of an investigation into the death of one of Hackman and Arakawa’s dogs, Zinna. The pet was found dead at their home on February 26. The dog was discovered in a kennel in a bathroom closet near where Arakawa’s body was found.

Waiting for Answers

Santa Fe Sheriff Adam Mendoza explained that investigators are also waiting for the couple’s phone records. However, he believes it is “very unlikely” they will uncover any new information from the devices.

The sheriff stated that the investigation remains open until the investigators resolve the remaining issues. This includes the cell phone records, the necropsy results of the dog, and other loose ends. He added that they are nearing the end of the timeline, with the information provided by Dr. Jarrell.

Mendoza stated that it’s unclear whether Hackman used a mobile phone or attempted to contact anyone after his wife’s death. He added that there is no indication of Hackman using cell phones, technology, or emails. He has no activity that has been found on his devices.

Authorities hope that Arakawa’s phone may reveal new details. When asked if she had informed anyone of her ill health before her death, Mendoza stated that investigators were reviewing her communications. They believe the cell phone may provide clues. However, as of now, there is no information suggesting she mentioned feeling ill in her communications.

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