The film world is once again in shock, following the tragic loss of Michelle Trachtenberg at just 39 years old. Gene Hackman, a legend of American cinema who retired in 2004, was found dead at his home in New Mexico on Wednesday 26 February 2025, alongside his wife Betsy Arakawa and their dog. This double tragedy quickly raised many questions, especially due to the mysterious circumstances surrounding the incident.
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Initially, the theory of a gas leak was put forward, but this hypothesis was swiftly dismissed by the investigators. A disturbing detail helped refine the timeline of events: Gene Hackman's pacemaker is believed to have stopped working on 17 February, nine days before the bodies were discovered. As for Betsy Arakawa, her body showed signs of advanced decomposition, suggesting that she had died well before the emergency services arrived.
The investigation is still ongoing
When the bodies were found, another detail raised alarm among the authorities: the front door of the house was open and unsecured, casting doubt on a possible break-in or a hasty escape. Inside, the arrangement of the bodies was also intriguing. Gene Hackman was found lying in a room used as a changing area, while Betsy Arakawa was discovered in a bathroom, near a radiator, with an open bottle of medication beside her.
Another disturbing element: the couple owned three dogs, but one of them, a German shepherd, was found dead in a cupboard in the bathroom, not far from Betsy's body. An autopsy has been ordered to determine the cause of death of the animal, which could provide valuable clues for the investigation.
At present, the authorities are leaning towards the theory of a domestic tragedy, but remain cautious about drawing final conclusions. The toxicological analysis of the bodies should provide further information about the possible presence of suspicious substances.
These elements could be the key to unfolding the mystery
According to Fox News, some important elements could be extremely valuable in uncovering the truth behind the couple's tragic passing. Detectives reportedly found two cellphones, a prescription bottle, and a 2025 planner in the actor's home. Former FBI investigator Bill Daly told the media how they could help the investigation move forward. He said:
After receiving the cell phones, investigators can determine when they stopped moving, when they lost communication, which can tell the time of disablement or death.
The police could be hoping that the cellphones do not belong to the couple, but to however might have broken in instead. Bill Daly continued:
They can do geolocating around the property to see what was pinging around that time, though they won't be able to tell who without a warrant, but can tell what activity there was before and afterward, even if they're not suspecting foul play.
The couple's bins could also give important information to investigators, possibly revealing if the couple suffered from food poisoning. The former FBI investigator concluded:
Toxicology – there could have been some other type of poisoning, possibly food? They'll go through their trash, fridge … this is stuff the police can do in the meantime while gathering evidence. There are a number of possibilities.
As the mystery deepens, the coming days will be crucial in determining the true causes of the tragedy. Was it a simple accident, or is this a more complex case? One thing is certain: this tragic disappearance leaves behind many unanswered questions.
This article has been adapted from Oh!MyMag FR.
Read more:
Michelle Trachtenberg, David Lynch, Gene Hackman: All the celebrities who have died in 2025
Why Gene Hackman retired from acting: His struggles with stress and his heart health
British comedy legend Tony Slattery dies of heart attack at 65
Sources used:
TMZ: Gene Hackman, Wife Betsy Deaths Called 'Suspicious'
Associated Press: What to know about Hollywood icon Gene Hackman’s and his wife’s deaths
Fox News: Gene Hackman death investigation: Experts say pills, phones, trash could provide important clues
