The tragic passing of Hollywood legend Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, has sparked widespread speculation, but the actor’s nephew, Tim Hackman, is urging the public to remain patient and avoid negativity.
The couple, along with one of their three dogs, Zinna, was found deceased in their $3.8 million Santa Fe, New Mexico home. Authorities have labeled their deaths as “suspicious,” leading to rampant theories, including potential toxic gas exposure. However, a recent investigation by the local gas company found “no significant findings” of gas leaks or carbon monoxide.
Tim Hackman Responds to Theories Surrounding Gene Hackman’s Death
Tim Hackman, son of stuntman Richard Hackman, spoke to Us Weekly about the ongoing investigation, emphasizing that toxicology results will ultimately provide clarity.
“We’re waiting on toxicology. That will tell us everything. It’s hard to theorize. There are lots of theories out there, and I don’t want to speculate. It’s easy to speculate negative theories,” he said. “The family wants to keep it positive for now, and when we know the truth, we will deal with it.”
At 95 years old, Hackman’s passing may not have been unexpected, but Tim Hackman noted that the circumstances surrounding the discovery of their bodies have led to more questions than answers.
Investigation Reveals No Major Gas Leaks
Authorities initially believed that toxic fumes could have played a role in the deaths. Hackman’s daughter, Elizabeth Jean, had previously expressed concerns about possible exposure to harmful gases. However, an inspection by the New Mexico Gas Company detected only a minor leak from a stove burner, which officials ruled out as a contributing factor.
The couple was discovered on February 26 after a maintenance worker contacted emergency services. Authorities estimate they had been deceased for approximately nine days before being found.
Timeline and Autopsy Findings
The Santa Fe sheriff’s department reported that Gene Hackman was found in one room, while Betsy Arakawa and Zinna were discovered in a bathroom. Sheriff Adan Mendoza stated that preliminary tests showed “no signs of external trauma.” Arakawa’s remains showed signs of “decomposition and mummification” in the hands and feet, while Hackman’s condition was consistent with a similar timeframe of death.
Further evidence from an analysis of Hackman’s pacemaker revealed that it had stopped recording activity on February 17, leading investigators to believe that may have been the date of his passing.
“According to the pathologist, I think that is a very good assumption—that was his last day of life,” Mendoza stated during a press conference.
Ongoing Investigation: Was Foul Play Involved?
Despite early reports suggesting no foul play, a later search warrant affidavit classified the deaths as “suspicious,” prompting further investigation. The couple’s bodies were transported for post-mortem examinations, which confirmed no external trauma.
Sheriff Mendoza assured the public that authorities are conducting a thorough inquiry. “We are waiting for the toxicology results, which will be key in determining what happened,” he said.
Final Thoughts: Awaiting Toxicology Reports for Answers
As speculation continues, Tim Hackman has reiterated that patience is crucial. Until toxicology results are available, theories regarding the cause of death remain just that—speculation.
The shocking loss of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa has left Hollywood and fans in mourning, but for now, the focus remains on uncovering the truth behind their untimely deaths.
