The investigation into the deaths of Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, has taken a significant turn with new findings regarding Hackman’s pacemaker. According to the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Department, Hackman’s pacemaker, which recorded its last event on February 17, 2025, could hold a vital clue in determining the timeline of his death. Forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Baden highlighted that the pacemaker’s recorded activity could indicate that Hackman suffered a cardiac arrest, possibly triggering his sudden collapse. The pacemaker monitors heart rhythm and activates when the pulse becomes dangerously low, which would explain the sequence of events leading to his death. It seems highly likely that Hackman passed away on or around that date, though the investigation is still ongoing.
Arakawa’s Sudden Death: A Possible Aftermath
As authorities continue to investigate Hackman’s death, attention has shifted to the circumstances surrounding Betsy Arakawa’s passing. Arakawa was discovered on the bathroom floor near a space heater, with an open bottle of medication and pills scattered across the countertop. The medications found at the scene, including thyroid medication, Tylenol, and Diltiazem, a blood pressure drug, provide some clues about her potential health struggles. The sheriff’s report suggests that Arakawa may have been in distress when she attempted to assist Hackman, possibly after his pacemaker ceased functioning. Dr. Baden theorized that, overwhelmed by the situation, Arakawa might have collapsed in the bathroom while attempting to retrieve Hackman’s blood pressure medication. This could have resulted in an injury, such as a head trauma, which might have contributed to her death.
The Search for Answers: Investigating Hackman’s Collapse
When Hackman’s body was discovered, it was found in the mudroom, with his walking cane and sunglasses nearby, raising the possibility that he had experienced a sudden fall. Dr. Michael Baden, providing his expert insights, confirmed that there were no signs of external injury or carbon monoxide poisoning, and Hackman’s underlying heart disease seemed to be the primary factor in his passing. The autopsy results indicated no immediate signs of foul play, but Hackman’s pre-existing coronary artery disease and high blood pressure could have triggered a fatal cardiac event. It is not uncommon for people with heart disease to suffer a fatal heart attack or collapse suddenly. However, the circumstances surrounding his death—such as being isolated with Arakawa—make the case stand out and raise additional questions.
Arakawa’s Potential Role in the Tragic Outcome
Dr. Baden further speculated that Arakawa’s death might have occurred after she tried to assist Hackman, possibly triggering her own health issues in the process. The theory is that, in her state of distress, Arakawa hurried to the bathroom to retrieve medication for Hackman. In her rush, she may have tripped or lost balance, resulting in a fall that caused her head injury. Alternatively, as a 65-year-old woman, she may have suffered from severe heart disease, which could have been triggered by the stress of the situation. Either way, it is believed that Arakawa’s death was linked to her attempt to help Hackman. However, more forensic details, such as a full autopsy report, are needed to confirm the cause.
The Impact of Isolation: A Heartbreaking End to a Devastating Story
The tragic deaths of Hackman and Arakawa were further compounded by the sad discovery of their German Shepherd’s body, which was found in a bathroom closet. Investigators noted that two other dogs were found alive on the property, but one had been confined to a cage for the entire nine-day period. This dog likely perished from dehydration and lack of water during that time.
The isolation of the couple during their final days, compounded by the death of their beloved pet, adds an even more heart-wrenching element to this already tragic case. Dr. Baden acknowledged that while heart disease is a common cause of death in the United States, the unusual circumstances of Hackman and Arakawa’s deaths—particularly the fact that they were alone, without calling for help—make the situation deeply tragic.
In the end, this case reveals not just the fragility of health but also the complexity of life’s unexpected moments. The investigation continues, and while the forensic evidence points to a series of unfortunate events leading to their deaths, there are still many unanswered questions. Ultimately, this tragic incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of life and death.
