Gene Hackman investigation: ‘No significant findings’ by gas company in home

SANTA FE, N.M. — The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office confirmed New Mexico Gas Company found “no significant findings” during an investigation of the home where actor Gene Hackman, his wife and their dog were found dead.

The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office on Tuesday detailed the findings of the gas company’s “extensive” investigation for gas leaks and carbon monoxide in the home.

The gas company found a nonlethal amount of gas in the air at one of the stove burners. They also found four code enforcement violations not involving gas leaks or carbon monoxide. It involved a water heater and gas log lighters installed in three fireplaces.

“Those results are not believed to be a factor in the deaths of Gene Hackman, Betsy Arakawa or their dog. Although, the information was relayed to the Office of the Medical Investigator for consideration,” said Denise Avila, the spokesperson for the sheriff’s office.

The sheriff’s office didn’t specify any further details about the investigation.

Hackman, Arakawa, and their dog were found dead Feb. 26 at their Santa Fe home, according to the sheriff’s office. The sheriff’s office confirmed their deaths early Thursday morning.

The Santa Fe Fire Department didn’t find any initial signs of a carbon monoxide leak or poisoning, according to a search warrant. New Mexico Gas Company also responded and found “no signs or evidence indicating there were any problems associated to the pipes in and around the residence.”

The Santa Fe County Sheriff said the “last recorded event” on Hackman’s pacemaker was Feb. 17.

“According to the pathologist, I think that is a very good assumption that that was his last day of life,” the sheriff said.

MORE:

• Gene Hackman, wife and dog found dead under ‘suspicious’ circumstances at Santa Fe home
• Sheriff: Last ‘recorded event’ on Gene Hackman’s pacemaker was Feb. 17