Gene Hackman’s daughter, Elizabeth Jean Hackman, has spoken out following the death of her father and stepmother, Betsy Arakawa, who were found dead in their Santa Fe home on February 26, 2025. Elizabeth expressed uncertainty about the cause of their deaths but speculated that it could be related to carbon monoxide poisoning, possibly due to toxic fumes. Officials confirmed that there were no signs of foul play, and a gas company is assisting in the investigation.

The bodies were discovered after a welfare check by authorities, with a gas company and fire department responding to a neighbor’s concern. Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza assured the community that there was no immediate danger. Hackman, 95, retired from acting in 2008 after a legendary career. He and Arakawa, married since 1991, had remained mostly private, with their last public appearance occurring in March 2024.