SANTA FE, N.M. — The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office gave an update on their investigation into the “suspicious” death of actor Gene Hackman, wife Betsy Arakawa and their dog.

According to Sheriff Adan Mendoza, a pathologist with the New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator said they conducted an initial investigation of Hackman’s pacemaker.

“This revealed that his last event was recorded on Feb. 17, 2025,” Sheriff Adan Mendoza said, adding later, “According to the pathologist, I think that is a very good assumption that that was his last day of life.”

The pathologist added Hackman and Arakawa tested negative for carbon monoxide in the initial test.

Deputies found them dead Wednesday afternoon at their home in Santa Fe. A search warrant stated the Santa Fe Fire Department and New Mexico Gas Company couldn’t find any indication of carbon monoxide poisoning or a leak in the home.

The warrant also stated deputies called for a thorough investigation due to “suspicious” circumstances, such as the couple appearing to have been dead for some time when they arrived.

The sheriff said the next step is to review evidence, such as cell phone data, to piece together a timeline. A full autopsy and toxicology reports are still pending as the investigation is ongoing.

Hackman’s death shocked the world, especially film lovers who knew him for his iconic roles in films such as “The French Connection,” “Unforgiven,” “Superman” and “The Royal Tenenbaums.”

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• Gene Hackman, wife and dog found dead under ‘suspicious’ circumstances at Santa Fe home