The passing of Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, left a significant void in Hollywood, but an unexpected and heartbreaking element of the tragedy involved their loyal dogs, who played a crucial role in helping authorities find their bodies.

For many years, Hackman and Arakawa lived a peaceful life in Santa Fe, New Mexico, away from the hustle of Hollywood. The legendary actor and his classical pianist wife built a home filled with love, music, and their beloved pets.

However, in February 2024, their peaceful life was shattered by a devastating event.

Final Days

On February 11, Arakawa, 65, was seen running errands, including shopping at a CVS pharmacy in Santa Fe. At the time, she was unknowingly battling hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), a rare and deadly virus contracted from rodent droppings. Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza later reported that Arakawa had sent an email and picked up a few essentials before her sudden decline. Sadly, this would be her final day.

Arakawa had also recently picked up one of the couple’s dogs, Zinna, an Australian Kelpie mix, after the dog underwent surgery in late January. Zinna’s recovery required being kept in a crate, and Arakawa was expected to return to the veterinary clinic to pick up special dog food and medication for her pets. However, she never showed up.

A Devoted Pet Owner

Staff at the veterinary clinic, familiar with Arakawa’s dedication to her pets, became concerned when she failed to pick up the supplies on time. Robert Gruda, the clinic’s owner, described her as an excellent and devoted pet owner. “She was consistent, predictable,” he said. “We knew something was wrong when she didn’t pick up the food on time.”

The staff’s worries were confirmed when they called her cellphone on February 17 and received no response. Tragically, Arakawa had died from hantavirus on February 11, just hours after her last outing. Zinna, locked in the crate near her deceased owner’s body, had no chance of survival.

Gene Hackman’s Passing

On the same day the clinic attempted to reach Arakawa, Hackman, 95, passed away from cardiovascular disease. He had also been battling advanced Alzheimer’s disease. Sadly, Hackman lived alone in their home, unaware that his wife had died several days earlier.

Discovery of the Bodies

On February 26, a maintenance worker visiting the couple’s property found the front door slightly ajar. Upon peering through a window, the worker spotted Arakawa’s lifeless body inside and immediately called 9-1-1. First responders arrived soon after and were guided by one of the couple’s dogs, who led them around the property with persistent barking. Initially, officials thought the dog was simply seeking attention, but soon realized the dog was trying to lead them to something important.

The dog’s determined actions led the responders to a mudroom in the far corner of the house, where they discovered the body of Gene Hackman, lying crumpled on the floor. It became clear that the dog had been trying to communicate: “Come over here! Come over here!” said Santa Fe Fire Chief Brian Moya.

The Aftermath

The couple’s two German Shepherds, Bear and Nikita, had access to the house through an open back door, allowing them to move freely and watch over their owners. They now reside with Joey Padilla, the owner of Santa Fe Tails pet care, where the dogs were frequently boarded.

This tragic story marks a heartbreaking end to the lives of a Hollywood icon and his devoted wife. Through it all, their loyal dogs never left their side, helping authorities uncover the tragic fate of their beloved owners.