Gene Hackman’s neighbors admit they barely saw him
ArchiveFirst published March 5, 2025. It may not reflect later developments.
Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 65, were found dead in their New Mexico home on February 26. Hackman was in the mudroom, while Arakawa was in the bathroom with scattered prescription bottles. Authorities believe Hackman died on February 17 when his pacemaker stopped recording a heartbeat. Though no foul play is suspected, their deaths are being investigated as “suspicious.”
Neighbors described them as very private. Bud Hamilton, a longtime neighbor, said he only dined with them once in 20 years. James Everett shared, “They have a gate, and we have a gate, and we just have never even seen each other.” Harvey Chalker added, “He wanted to be quiet, he didn’t want to be bothered.”
Their bodies were discovered after maintenance workers noticed their absence. Two dogs survived, while one was found dead. Authorities ruled out gas leaks but are still investigating.
Hackman, a two-time Oscar winner, retired in 2004. His daughter, Elizabeth, suspects toxic fumes as a cause. Officials confirmed, “At this time, we do not believe foul play was a factor.”
