Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa were found dead on Wednesday, along with one of their dogs.
According to a warrant, Hackman and his wife were discovered in separate rooms and had been deceased “for some time.”
News broke earlier today (February 27) that the acclaimed actor and his 63-year-old wife, Betsy Arakawa, were found dead in their Santa Fe, New Mexico home.
Hackman, best known for films like The French Connection, Superman, and Enemy of the State, was 95 and had retired from acting years ago.
In addition to the couple, one of their three dogs was also found dead.
Hackman’s daughter, Elizabeth, has since spoken out, stating that it’s believed her father, Arakawa, and their dog died from carbon monoxide poisoning.
As more details emerge about their unexpected passing, investigators have confirmed that Hackman and Arakawa were discovered in separate rooms.
According to the Associated Press, Hackman was found in a mudroom, while his wife was discovered in a bathroom next to a space heater.
Inside the bathroom, an open prescription bottle and scattered pills were found on the countertop.
This information was detailed in a search warrant issued by the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office.
Additionally, sheriff’s office spokesperson Denise Avila confirmed that neither Hackman nor Arakawa had any gunshot wounds or other visible injuries.
As for how long they had been there, reports suggest they had been deceased for some time. According to Mail Online, the couple’s bodies were partially mummified.
The investigation into their deaths remains ongoing.
Hollywood has been pouring out tributes for Hackman following news of his passing.
Star Trek actor George Takei reflected on the late 95-year-old, saying: “Gene Hackman could play anyone, and you could feel a whole life behind it. He could be everyone and no one, a towering presence or an everyday Joe. That’s how powerful an actor he was.”
Filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola shared: “The loss of a great artist is always cause for both mourning and celebration. Gene Hackman was a great actor, inspiring and magnificent in his work and complexity. I mourn his loss and celebrate his existence and contribution.”
Meanwhile, Spanish actor Antonio Banderas took to Instagram, writing: “A very sad day for… cinema’s family. Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa have passed away.
“My deepest condolences to friends, family, and cinema lovers. RIP.”