Gene Hackman's wife (64) found in disturbing condition—What happened?
What's the story
In a shocking development, the body of Betsy Arakawa (64), wife of late Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman (95), was reportedly found decomposed with signs of "mummification in both hands and feet" and "facial bloating."
The couple and their dog were found dead in their luxurious New Mexico residence on Thursday.
The Santa Fe Sheriff's Office confirmed that the couple had been dead for an undetermined period before their bodies were discovered.
Investigation details
'Unsecured and open': Hackman-Arakawa's home at the time of discovery
The police investigation has uncovered disturbing details about the scene at the couple's home.
The residence was reportedly "unsecured and open," with an orange prescription pill bottle left open and pills strewn across the room where Arakawa's body was discovered.
A black space heater was found near her head, prompting a responding officer to suspect that "the heater could have fallen in the event the female abruptly fell to the ground."
Additional findings
Hackman's body and deceased dog found in separate locations
Further into the investigation, deputies found the couple's dead dog in a bathroom closet, about 10-15 feet away from Arakawa.
Meanwhile, Hackman's body was discovered in a mudroom near a pair of sunglasses. The report stated he seemed to have "suddenly fallen."
The police are still trying to ascertain the last time anyone contacted the couple and are treating their deaths as "suspicious enough in nature to require a thorough search and investigation."
Career overview
Hackman's illustrious career and personal life
Known for his raspy voice, Hackman appeared in over 80 films, as well as on television and the stage during a long career that began in the early 1960s.
He received his first Oscar nomination for his breakout role as the brother of bank robber Clyde Barrow in 1967's Bonnie and Clyde.
He was nominated for five Academy Awards over a period of 25 years, winning two.
Meanwhile, Arakawa was a classically trained pianist.