Did Gene Hackman, Wife Die Of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning? Actor’s Family Supports Internet’s Speculation

While the cause of death is still not known, Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza confirmed that no foul play is suspected.

Renowned Hollywood actor Gene Hackman and his wife, classical pianist Betsy Arakawa, were found dead at their home in the Santa Fe Summit community, northeast of Santa Fe, on Wednesday afternoon. While the cause of death is still not known, Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza confirmed that no foul play is suspected. The couple’s dog was also reportedly found dead.

However, the Family members of the actor told news outlet TMZ that they suspect the deaths were due to carbon monoxide gas poisoning.

Hackman’s daughter, Elizabeth, stated that she believes that her father might have died after inhaling toxic carbon monoxide fumes.

Social Media Abuzz With Speculations

Soon after the reports of the couple’s death grabbed headlines, social media was abuzz with speculations that carbon monoxide poisoning could be the cause.

Taking to X, a social media user wrote, “How are they all dead along with their dog? Could it be carbon monoxide poisoning? A great actor. A pleasure to watch. Thank you for the most cherished memories Mr Hackman. RIP Mr Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa and your poor dog. God bless you all.”

“Since Gene, his wife, and dog all found dead and no foul play, we thinking carbon monoxide poisoning? So sad,” another user wrote.

A third user commented, “Wow. Gene Hackman, wife and dog found dead. No suspicious circumstances. Suspected carbon monoxide poisoning.”

“Awful news to wake up to. They’re reporting the dog died as well and no foul play? Only thing I can think of is something like carbon monoxide poisoning,” one more social media user speculated. 

Is Carbon Monoxide Poisoning A Factor?

As per the data shared by New Mexico Poison Control, carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is more common during the winter months in the United States as people are more relied on heaters and furnaces for warmth.

The New Mexico Department of Health reported around 73 carbon monoxide-related deaths in the state between 2017 and 2021.

Gene Hackman, Wife Betsy Arakawa Found Dead

Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman has died at the age of 95. According to reports, the veteran actor and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were found dead at their home in New Mexico’s Santa Fe.

A statement from the Santa Fe County Sheriff in New Mexico said: “We can confirm that both Gene Hackman and his wife were found deceased Wednesday afternoon at their residence on Sunset Trail. This is an active investigation – however, at this time we do not believe that foul play was a factor.”