Authorities in New Mexico have confirmed that the deaths of Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were not related to a gas leak.
The New Mexico Gas Company conducted a thorough investigation for gas leaks and carbon monoxide at the couple’s home and reported “no significant findings,” according to a statement from the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office.
However, the investigation on February 26 did uncover a “minuscule leak” at one of the stovetop burners, as well as four code enforcement violations related to the installation of lighters for a water heater and fireplaces.
Despite these findings, the sheriff’s office indicated that they are “not believed to be a factor” in the deaths of Hackman, Arakawa, or their dog. This information has been passed on to the Office of the Medical Investigator.
Hackman, 95, and Arakawa, along with their dog, were discovered deceased in their New Mexico home under circumstances that had previously been deemed “suspicious enough” to initiate a comprehensive investigation.
The exact causes of their deaths remain unknown. Preliminary autopsies revealed no external trauma and no immediate signs of foul play. Authorities also indicated that there were no initial indications of a carbon monoxide or natural gas leak.
Both Hackman and Arakawa tested negative for carbon monoxide, helping to rule it out as a potential cause of death, as stated by Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza.
