Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa Hackman, were found dead in their Santa Fe home on February 26, 2025. The couple’s deaths have prompted an investigation, and recently released bodycam footage has shed light on the tragic circumstances surrounding their passing.
The footage, dated February 27, shows a Santa Fe County Sheriff’s deputy speaking with Gene’s daughter, Elizabeth. In the video, she discusses the remains of the couple’s dog, Zinna, who was found near her mother’s body. Elizabeth requested that Zinna’s remains be cremated and buried with Betsy. Zinna was the couple’s oldest dog, at 12 years old, and Elizabeth expressed concern about her collar, asking if it could be saved.
In another part of the footage, a groundskeeper, visibly upset, spoke about the couple’s kindness and the impact of their deaths. He described Betsy as a "sweetheart" and expressed his sorrow at finding them in such a state. The emotional toll on those who knew them was evident.
Authorities believe Betsy likely died around February 11, while Gene passed away about a week later. Betsy’s cause of death was determined to be hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, while Gene suffered from hypertensive atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, with Alzheimer’s disease also contributing.
Gene Hackman, a renowned actor known for his roles in films like "The French Connection" and "Unforgiven," had been private about his health struggles. His family has expressed a desire to maintain their privacy following this tragedy. A petition has been filed by the Hackman estate to block the release of certain footage and details from the investigation, citing the couple’s right to privacy.
The bodycam footage is part of a broader investigation into the couple’s deaths, which has drawn significant media attention. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Department confirmed that they have been in contact with both of Gene’s daughters regarding the situation.
As the investigation continues, the community remembers Gene and Betsy for their long-standing commitment to a private life in Santa Fe, where they lived for over thirty years. Their legacy as caring individuals who treated those around them well is evident in the heartfelt reactions from those who knew them.