Credited from: BBC
Key Takeaways:
In a significant update to the investigation surrounding the deaths of actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, authorities have noted that Arakawa's death occurred later than previously estimated. Initially, law enforcement believed Arakawa had died on February 11, but new evidence from cellphone records reveals she made multiple calls to Cloudberry Health, a concierge medical service, on February 12, seeking medical advice.
Dr. Josiah Child, the service's physician, indicated that although Arakawa did not display signs of respiratory distress, she reported feeling “congested” and was scheduled for an appointment that day. However, she ultimately did not attend the meeting. According to ABC News, this discrepancy prompted investigators to reassess the timeline, as authorities had initially stated that her last known activity was visiting a local grocery store on February 11.
Gene Hackman, aged 95, reportedly died on February 18, approximately one week after his wife. His passing was attributed to severe cardiovascular disease, while advanced Alzheimer’s contributed to the circumstances surrounding his death. The state chief medical investigator has indicated that it is presumed Hackman may not have realized the situation with his wife for days. A necropsy revealed that one of their dogs had died of starvation and dehydration, emphasizing potential neglect during their decline, as noted by HuffPost.
A police investigation continues into the tragic deaths, with concerns about how they occurred within the confines of their home. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that the couple's bodies were discovered by neighborhood security on February 26, amid indications that they had both passed several days prior.
As they examine the circumstances, legal representatives for Hackman and Arakawa's estate are attempting to prevent the release of body camera footage and other visual evidence related to their deaths, seeking a temporary restraining order as discussed in reports by BBC.
For further details on this developing story, you can read more at the following links: NY Times and ABC News.