Gene Hackman's nephew addresses 'theories' surrounding actor and wife's mysterious deaths 
Share and Follow

A ongoing investigation into the deaths of Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa has labelled their deaths as “suspicious”. Despite this, the family is not speculating on the cause of their passing.

Tim Hackman, the son of Gene’s brother Richard Hackman, said the family is waiting on the toxicology report results in an interview with Us Weekly published Monday.

“That will tell us everything. It’s hard to theorize,” Gene’s nephew said. “There are lots of theories out there and I don’t want to speculate. It’s easy to speculate negative theories.”

Tim shared that the family is trying to remain optimistic as they mourn the loss of the “The Royal Tenenbaums” star.

“The family wants to keep it positive for now and when we know the truth we will deal with it,” he told the outlet.

Page Six confirmed on Feb. 27 that Gene and Arakawa were found dead inside their Santa Fe, New Mexico, home along with one of their dogs the previous day. He was 95 and she was 65.

Gene’s eldest daughter, Elizabeth Jean Hackman, had told TMZ that the family believed their dad and stepmom died from carbon monoxide poisoning. Meanwhile, his daughter Leslie said Gene had been in good health before his passing.

The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office initially did not suspect foul play, but hours later, they called the case “suspicious enough in nature to require a thorough search” after finding pills on the scene and “no obvious signs of a gas leak.”

Cops confirmed in a press conference that both Gene and the classical pianist “tested negative for carbon monoxide.”

Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office also confirmed in a press release obtained by Page Six on Tuesday that the New Mexico Gas Company conducted an extensive investigation for gas leaks and carbon monoxide and found “no significant findings.”

Authorities seized three different medications and two green cell phones from the home as well as a 2025 monthly planner and MyQuest records, according to a search warrant obtained by TMZ.

Investigators found that Gene’s pacemaker had stopped tracking his heart’s movements on Feb. 17 — more than a week before his body was discovered.

Arakawa, who married Gene in 1991, was found in a state of decomposition and mummification in the bathroom.

The “Heartbreakers” actor’s film legacy was honored by Hollywood at the 2025 Oscars Sunday — with Morgan Freeman delivering an emotional tribute to his “dear friend.”

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
Former Gavin Newsom chief of staff charged in $225K fraud and corruption scheme, DOJ says

Ex-Newsom Aide Faces DOJ Charges in $225K Fraud and Corruption Scandal

In a dramatic turn of events, Dana Williamson, who once served as…
Georgia judge declares city ordinance banning guns in unlocked cars as 'unenforceable'

Georgia Judge Rules City Gun Storage Law in Cars Cannot Be Enforced

In a significant legal decision on Wednesday, a judge in Georgia dismissed…
Disturbing way dad who let daughter, 2, die in hot car killed himself

Father Responsible for Tragic Hot Car Incident Involving 2-Year-Old Daughter Takes Own Life

A tragic incident unfolded as a father took his own life on…
NHL odds, picks, best bet Wednesday

Unlock Winning Strategies: Top NHL Picks and Betting Odds for Wednesday!

Gambling content 21+. The New York Post may receive an affiliate commission…
Grandmother allegedly kills 5-year-old grandson while driving impaired in family driveway

Tragic Driveway Incident: Impaired Grandmother Accused in Heartbreaking Death of 5-Year-Old Grandson

A devastating incident unfolded in Louisiana when a grandmother was taken into…
House votes to end longest shutdown in US history, sending bill Trump

House Approves Bill to Conclude Longest Government Shutdown in US History, Awaits President Trump’s Decision

In a significant move, Capitol Hill lawmakers have successfully passed a budget…
Moment boy is perp walked into Florida jail after 'writing kill list'

Florida Teen Arrested: Shocking ‘Kill List’ Discovery Leads to Jail Walk

An 11-year-old student found himself in a Florida jail after allegedly crafting…
University of Iowa conservative group leader defiant after recent table flipping attacks: 'builds character'

University of Iowa Conservative Group Leader Stands Firm After Table-Flipping Attacks: ‘Character Building Experience

A conservative student organization at the University of Iowa remains resolute in…