carbon monoxide and other hazardous substances, concluding that it was safe.
According to an affidavit, “New Mexico Gas Company responded to the residence and tested the gas line in and around the house.” The report indicated, “At this time, there are no indications or proof that the pipes in and around the house have ever had any issues.”
Sheriff Adan Mendoza stated, “Initial findings noted no external trauma to either individual.” No signs of foul play were detected, and the cause of death remains unknown. The toxicology and autopsy reports are still pending, and the investigation is ongoing.
In an interview with NBC News Now’s Tom Llamas, Santa Fe Mayor Alan Webber paid tribute to Hackman, describing him as a “gracious, friendly” celebrity who “treated everyone well.” He remarked, “Here in Santa Fe, these two individuals are just regular people who belong to the community, despite their enormous talent and international reputations.”
Leslie, 58, mentioned that the family is still grappling with the loss, noting, “There was no indication that there was any problem” with her father before his death. She added that he was in good physical condition and had not undergone any significant surgeries recently, continuing to practice yoga and Pilates several times a week.
According to the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office, their bodies had been in the house for at least a day before being discovered, with some fears suggesting they may have been dead for up to two weeks. An arrest warrant obtained by DailyMail.com indicated that both bodies were found partially mummified and showing signs of decomposition, likely preserved by the cold, dry air of the New Mexico desert.
News of their deaths was not made public until after midnight on Thursday, suggesting it took hours to identify their bodies. Hackman was found in a mudroom near the kitchen, with his cane and sunglasses on the ground, raising the possibility that he had fallen. Arakawa was discovered on the bathroom floor, with an open bottle of prescription medication nearby. Neither showed any signs of injury.
Local officials estimate it may take four to six weeks for the autopsy results to be released. Gene and Betsy were married for 34 years, having wed in 1991. Leslie remarked, “Their marriage was fantastic, and I give credit to his wife, Betsy, for keeping him alive.”