Authorities uncovered a chilling discovery inside the Santa Fe home of legendary actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, as part of the investigation into their tragic deaths earlier this year.
Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa Found Dead in $4M Santa Fe Mansion
The Hollywood icon Gene Hackman, 95, passed away from heart disease complicated by Alzheimer’s disease, just days after his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 65, died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome—a rare and potentially fatal virus linked to rodent droppings. Their bodies were discovered in their $4 million estate in Santa Fe, New Mexico, on February 26, 2024.
Small Blood Stains and Dirty Bandage Found in Bed
A new release of police documents and photos from inside the couple’s secluded mansion revealed unsettling evidence found in their bed. Officers discovered small blood stains and a dirty band-aid on wrinkled blue sheets—a detail that has sparked speculation online.
While investigators confirmed that the blood and bandage were unrelated to the causes of death, the findings have added a mysterious element to the tragic scene.
Love Notes Offer Glimpse Into Hackman and Arakawa’s Final Days
Photos from the scene also showed handwritten notes exchanged between Hackman and Arakawa, revealing a touching, albeit heartbreaking, look at their private life.
Hackman, who battled Alzheimer’s in his later years, left affectionate notes to his wife—often signed “Love, G.” One read:
“Morning lovely girl, thinking of you and the other little guys. Love G.”
In another note, his deteriorating mental state became apparent:
“Ho, Ho, I am off to see the Wizard… But I’ll survive because after all I am still alive. (But sometimes just barely). Love, G.”
Arakawa reciprocated the affection with daily reminders and puzzles left out for Hackman. One note read:
“Hi G! Taking Zin to obedience class & the vet appt. See you back at home! There is a jigsaw puzzle on the table. xo B.”
Hantavirus Confirmed in First New Mexico Case of the Year
Betsy Arakawa’s death was caused by hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare disease contracted from rodent droppings, often found in poorly ventilated or rural areas. An environmental assessment found rodent feces in outbuildings on the property, though the interior was clean.
This marked New Mexico’s first confirmed hantavirus case of 2024. According to the CDC, hantavirus symptoms start with fever, muscle aches, and fatigue, and can escalate to respiratory failure, with a fatality rate of around 36%.
Emails, Searches, and Phone Logs Point to Betsy’s Final Efforts
Documents also reveal that between February 8 and February 12, Betsy was actively searching for flu and COVID-19 symptoms, reaching out to a concierge medical service in Santa Fe. Unfortunately, she missed a callback, and her condition worsened rapidly.
In an email to her masseuse, she wrote that Hackman had flu-like symptoms and she had to reschedule her appointment.
Home Filled with Memories, But No Signs of Foul Play
Police reports confirmed there was no forced entry, and nothing suspicious inside the home aside from the chilling discovery in the bed. Investigators retrieved prescription medications, personal planners, cellphones, and a heartbreaking scene of one of the couple’s dogs guarding Betsy’s body.
Another dog was found deceased in a crate, adding to the sadness of the scene.
The Legacy of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa
Gene Hackman, a two-time Oscar winner known for roles in The French Connection, Unforgiven, and Hoosiers, had retired from acting in the early 2000s. A prolific actor, novelist, and artist, Hackman had remained largely out of the public eye in recent years.
Betsy Arakawa, a talented pianist and businesswoman, was vice president of Pandora’s, a home decor store in Santa Fe. She met Hackman in the mid-1980s while working at a gym in California.
Their love story spanned decades, and their Santa Fe residence was once featured in Architectural Digest for its Pueblo revival architecture, scenic views, and secluded elegance.
