The investigation into the deaths of Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, has taken a surprising turn.
Authorities announced on Friday that the couple tested negative for carbon monoxide poisoning, but the cause of their deaths remains unknown.
The Investigation So Far
Santa Fe County Sheriff Aden Mendoza revealed that he spoke with the pathologist from the New Mexico office of the medical investigator, who confirmed that both Hackman and Arakawa showed no signs of carbon monoxide poisoning.
The couple's bodies were discovered on Wednesday in their Santa Fe home, and it's believed they may have been dead for days or even weeks.
A Challenge for Investigators
Mendoza told NBC's "Today" show that figuring out the last time someone saw or spoke to the couple is a challenge due to their private nature.
The autopsy and toxicology testing results could take months to come in, leaving many questions unanswered.
The Scene at the Hackman Home
Hackman, 95, was found in an entryway, while Arakawa, 65, was found lying on her side in the bathroom. A dead German shepherd was also found in a kennel near Arakawa.
A search of the home turned up an open prescription bottle and pills on a countertop, as well as medication for high blood pressure, chest pain, and thyroid issues.
No Foul Play Suspected
Despite the mysterious circumstances, there's no indication of foul play, according to the sheriff's office.
Detectives believe the deaths are "suspicious enough in nature to require a thorough search and investigation."
A space heater was found next to Arakawa, which may have fallen when she collapsed.
A Legendary Career Cut Short
Gene Hackman was a Hollywood legend, with a career spanning decades and dozens of iconic films.
He won two Oscars and was nominated for five, with notable roles in "The French Connection," "Unforgiven," and "Hoosiers." He met his wife, Betsy, a classically trained pianist, in the 1980s, and they moved to Santa Fe together.
A Private Life
In recent years, Hackman had stepped back from the public eye, retiring from acting about 20 years ago. He and Arakawa were known for their love of German shepherds and lived a quiet life in their Pueblo revival home.
The investigation into their deaths continues, with authorities working to piece together the events surrounding their passing.
