The investigation into the death of Gene Hackman, his wife Betsy Arakawa, and their dog Zinna at their home in Santa Fe, New Mexico, remains ongoing and active more than two weeks after the tragic discovery. Santa Fe Sheriff Adan Mendoza confirmed at a recent news conference that detectives had made progress in answering many questions in the case but were still awaiting specific information to tie up loose ends. Retired NYPD inspector and Fox News contributor Paul Mauro emphasized the thoroughness of the investigation, ensuring no stone is left unturned.
The bodies of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa were found on February 26, sparking a detailed investigation. Detective work involving subpoenas and search warrants is ongoing, with a focus on examining digital footprints from cellphones and financial records. The investigation is being conducted meticulously to address any remaining uncertainties, including completing necropsy results for the dog Zinna and closing any investigative loopholes.
Authorities have determined that Betsy died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, while Gene passed away from hypertensive atherosclerosis cardiovascular disease, with Alzheimer’s disease as a contributing factor. The couple had not been seen in weeks prior to the discovery of their bodies. Detectives found items like cellphones, a prescription bottle, and a planner during a search of the residence, as they await the full toxicology report to shed more light on the circumstances.
Gene was believed to be alone in the home for about a week after Betsy’s passing, with his last recorded activity on his pacemaker dated around February 18. Medical Investigator Heather Jarrell conducted a thorough autopsy on Gene, revealing severe heart disease and advanced Alzheimer’s disease. The investigation continues, with a focus on unraveling the details surrounding the tragic deaths of Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy.
The ultimate cause of his death was likely his poor kidney function rather than dehydration, as revealed during the autopsy. The medical examiner noted that there was no food in his stomach, indicating that he hadn’t eaten recently. Additionally, due to his advanced Alzheimer’s, it is possible that he was unaware of his wife’s passing.
In a tragic twist, one of the Hackman family dogs, Zinna, was also found deceased at the scene. Authorities discovered that Betsy had picked up Zinna from a veterinary hospital shortly before their deaths. A report from the Santa Fe County animal control agency suggested that Zinna likely died from dehydration and starvation. The investigation found no signs of poisoning, infectious disease, or trauma that could have caused the dog’s death.
Zinna’s body was partially mummified, which may have obscured any organ changes. The dog’s stomach was empty, with only traces of hair and bile. Officials noted that a procedure had been performed on the dog, possibly explaining why Zinna was found in a crate.
The couple’s other dogs, Bear and Nikita, were found alive on the property. The circumstances surrounding Gene Hackman’s death continue to raise unanswered questions, including toxicology results and cellphone records.
(Source: Adapted from original article on Gene Hackman’s death)
