New Insights Into Gene Hackman’s Death: Search History, Surveillance Footage, and Family Loss

Authorities investigating the deaths of Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa Hackman, have released new details, including footage from inside their New Mexico home and Betsy’s search history in the days leading up to her death. These revelations shed light on the circumstances surrounding the tragic event.

In an email obtained by investigators, Betsy had reached out to her massage therapist on February 11, 2025, mentioning that Gene (known as “G”) had taken a COVID-19 test after showing flu-like symptoms. The search history found on Betsy’s computer reveals a series of inquiries about flu and COVID-19 symptoms starting on February 8. Betsy had searched terms like “flu and nosebleeds” and “COVID nosebleeds,” along with “Can COVID cause dizziness?” as she explored potential health concerns.

Before seeking medical care at Cloudberry Health in Santa Fe, she had looked up the effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy and the health facility itself. This suggests that she was actively researching medical conditions in the days before her death.

Footage from the scene, captured by body cameras of responding officers, also revealed one of the Hackmans’ dogs protecting Betsy’s body. When authorities entered their home, the couple’s dog, Bear, led them to Betsy’s body in the bathroom. The dog appeared to want to play, but later, officials realized it was guiding them to her.

The couple’s other dog, Nikita, helped authorities locate Gene’s body, which was found after a nearly 30-minute search. Unfortunately, another dog, Zinna, was found deceased in a crate nearby, likely from dehydration and starvation, according to reports.

Gene and Betsy Hackman, married for over 30 years, were found dead on February 26, 2025. Betsy, a talented classical pianist, died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, while Gene’s cause of death was linked to hypertensive atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, complicated by Alzheimer’s disease.

Gene’s death likely occurred sometime around February 18, when his pacemaker recorded its last activity. It’s believed that he had been alone in the house for nearly a week before authorities discovered his body. Investigators described the couple’s deaths as suspicious enough to warrant an extensive investigation.

The Santa Fe Sheriff’s Department, which released the new footage and search history details, expressed gratitude for the support of first responders and extended condolences to the Hackman family. Sheriff Adan Mendoza emphasized the importance of balancing public transparency with respect for the grieving family.

The investigation into the deaths of the Hackmans is ongoing, and authorities continue to piece together the events that led to the tragedy. While the cause of death for each individual has been determined, the circumstances surrounding their deaths raise many questions that remain unanswered.