New Videos Released in Gene Hackman Death Investigation
SANTA FE — May 7, 2024 — The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office has released new videos related to the investigation into the deaths of actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa. The videos provide key evidence and insight into the investigation immediately following the discovery of the bodies.The release includes bodycam footage, interviews, and looks at the couple’s home. Further details will be provided as the authorities continue to investigate.
new Videos Released in Gene Hackman Death Investigation
Authorities have released additional videos related to the investigation into the deaths of actor Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 65. The videos include footage of investigators revisiting the couple’s Santa Fe home to gather further evidence [1],[2], [3].
Key Findings & Timeline
- Discovery: The bodies of Mr. Hackman and Ms. Arakawa were found on Feb. 26 after maintenance and security personnel contacted law enforcement.
- Ongoing Release: The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office is progressively releasing redacted records, complying with a court order that mandates obscuring images of the deceased.
- Video Content: The recent release comprises hours of body camera footage,supplementing previously released investigative reports,photographs,and initial response videos.
Inside the Investigation: A Closer Look
The newly released videos offer insights into the early stages of the investigation, showing authorities interviewing various individuals and meticulously searching the Hackman-Arakawa residence before determining the causes of death.
search for Clues
One hour-long video documents detectives searching the Santa Fe home in early March, specifically looking for Ms. Arakawa’s laptop and any other potential clues. Family representatives granted access to the house and directed the detectives to the bathroom where Ms. arakawa’s body was discovered.
Pharmacy Surveillance
Another video captures detectives reviewing security footage at a local pharmacy, seeking any images of Ms.Arakawa from mid-february. During this review,a detective explained the gravity of the situation to a pharmacy employee:
We’re trying to see her last moments.
Pest Control Visit
A pest control worker who serviced the property told officers that he had not seen Mr. Hackman in at least a month, noting that such gaps were not unusual. He recalled his last sighting:
he was looking frail. He was bent over with a cane. His hair was sort of wild.
Causes of Death
Authorities determined that Ms. Arakawa died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare disease transmitted by rodents that presents with flu-like symptoms and severe respiratory distress. Mr. Hackman’s death, occurring approximately one week later, was attributed to heart disease complicated by Alzheimer’s disease.
Tragic Discovery of Family Pet
Adding to the tragedy, one of the couple’s three dogs was found deceased in a crate near Ms. Arakawa’s body. Two other dogs were found alive. A state veterinary lab determined the dog died from dehydration and starvation.
FAQ: Understanding the Investigation
- Why are the videos being released?
- The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office is releasing redacted records due to a court order mandating public access,with the stipulation that images of the deceased are obscured.
- What do the videos show?
- The videos depict investigators interviewing individuals, searching the couple’s home for evidence, and reviewing surveillance footage.
- What were the causes of death?
- Betsy Arakawa died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, while Gene Hackman died from heart disease with complications from Alzheimer’s disease.
