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Hollywood actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, may have died within a close timeframe as investigation into their deaths continues.
The couple was discovered dead on February 26 at their New Mexico estate, alongside one of their dogs. Data from Hackman’s pacemaker suggested that he may have died more than a week before he was found, according to the Santa Fe Sheriff’s Office.
A search warrant also revealed that Arakawa was found in an open bathroom near a space heater, with an open prescription bottle and pills scattered on the nearby countertop.
As authorities work to establish a clear timeline, Hackman’s family has chosen to avoid speculation. “We’re waiting on toxicology. That will tell us everything,” Hackman’s nephew, Tim Hackman, told Us Weekly on Tuesday. “It’s hard to theorise. There are lots of theories out there and I don’t want to speculate. It’s easy to speculate negative theories…The family wants to keep it positive for now, and when we know the truth, we will deal with it.”
A joint press conference with the state’s medical investigator and health department officials will be held on Friday to provide an update on the investigation.
Hackman, aged 95, had a prolific career spanning several decades, earning two Oscars among other accolades. He retired from acting in 2004 to focus on writing and painting.
Hackman married Arakawa in 1991, having been married previously to Faye Maltese from 1956 to 1986. Arakawa was a classical pianist. Hackman is survived by three children from his first marriage.
