There is a major new lead in Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa’s deaths (Image: Getty)
A major new update has been announced in ‘s death investigation as the sheriff working on the case has revealed key new information. , along with one of their dogs.
Santa Fe sheriff Adan Mendoza has announced the pills found near Betsy Arakawa’s body are a “significant evidence” and “of concern”. A prescription bottle of pills was located near the 65-year-old wife of Hackman, with many tablets scattered across the floor. Mendoza confirmed the prescription bottles are “very important evidence”, and have been passed onto the medical investigator.He added: “We’re looking at [the pills] specifically, and other medications possibly in the residence.”
The search warrant states the pills found were an unspecified thyroid medication, Tylenol and diltiazem, a medication used to treat high blood pressure.
Hackman and Arakawa’s deaths are still under an open investigatioon couple were found deceased in two separate rooms, while two surviving dogs were found on the property.
Gene and Betsy had been happily married since 1991 and lived a reclusive life (Image: Getty)
Mendoza issued a new statement on the couple’s deaths on Friday February 28, saying: “An initial interrogation was conducted of Mr Hackman’s pacemaker.
“This revealed that his last event was recorded on February 17, 2025, I was advised that a more thorough investigation will be completed.” When asked if that indicated Hackman died that day, he said: “According to the pathologist I think that is a very good assumption, that that was his last day of life.”
He continued: “The manner and cause of death have not been determined. The official results of the autopsy and toxicology reports are pending.”
Authorities have also ruled out carbon monoxide poisoning as their cause of death.
Santa Fe county sheriff, Adan Mendoza, confirmed that pathologist from the New Mexico office of the medical investigator had determined both Hackman and Arakawa tested negative for carbon monoxide.
Initial autopsies had found that the actor and his wife suffered no external trauma, and it could be months before the results from the full autopsy are revealed.