The death of Betsy Arakawa, wife of actor Gene Hackman, has raised questions due to the condition of her body. Found on February 26 at their Santa Fe, New Mexico home, Arakawa’s body showed signs of “mummification” in her hands and feet, along with bloating in her face, according to reports. A forensic pathologist explained that mummification can occur in days to weeks under specific conditions, which could favor the body drying out rather than decomposing with bloating.
Arakawa, 64, Hackman, 95, and their dog were all found dead at the home, though the time of death and cause remain undetermined. The pathologist clarified that natural mummification, which results in dry, leathery skin, differs from decomposition and requires dry, hot conditions, even in indoor environments. An investigation is ongoing.
