Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa’s dog Zinna was ‘mummified’ — and met a grim fate after owners died, new report shows

The Tragic End of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa: A Story of Love, Loss, and Devotion

Gene Hackman, the legendary actor known for his iconic roles in films like The French Connection and Crimson Tide, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, met a heartbreaking end in their Santa Fe home. The couple, who were found dead on February 26, left behind not only a legacy of love and art but also a poignant tale of devotion and tragedy. Their beloved dog, Zinna, a kelpie mix named after the wine "Zinfandel," was also discovered dead in their home, adding another layer of sorrow to this already devastating story. The necropsy report revealed that Zinna, who had been locked in a crate in a bathroom near Arakawa’s body, died of dehydration and starvation. The report described the dog as partially mummified, with her stomach mostly empty except for small amounts of hair and bile. Veterinarians concluded that her death was not caused by infectious disease, trauma, or poisoning, but solely by the harsh conditions she endured.

The Life and Death of Betsy Arakawa and Gene Hackman

Betsy Arakawa, 65, and Gene Hackman, 95, were more than just a couple; they were partners in life and art. Arakawa, who was Hackman’s wife of many years, was a woman of grace and kindness, beloved by those who knew her. Her death came first, caused by a rare and deadly disease known as hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, which is carried by rodents. This illness took her life about a week before Hackman’s passing. Hackman, who had been battling Alzheimer’s disease and heart conditions, died shortly after, unaware that his wife had already passed away. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that both deaths were ruled as natural causes, but they are still working to piece together the timeline of events surrounding their passing. Authorities are analyzing cellphones found at the scene to gain a clearer understanding of the circumstances leading up to their deaths.

The Devastating Fate of Zinna, the Faithful Companion

Zinna, the couple’s cherished dog, was more than just a pet; she was a member of the family. Her story is one of both joy and tragedy. Originally a shelter dog, Zinna was brought into the Hackman-Arakawa household and quickly became an adored companion, always by Arakawa’s side. Joey Padilla, the owner of Santa Fe Tails pet care facility, remembered Zinna fondly, noting how much she meant to the couple. However, Zinna’s life took a heartbreaking turn when her owners passed away. Locked in a crate in a bathroom near Arakawa’s body, Zinna was unable to escape or find food and water. The necropsy report revealed the sad truth: she died of dehydration and starvation, her body partially mummified due to the conditions she was left in. Her stomach was empty except for small amounts of hair and bile, a stark reminder of the cruelty of fate.

The Medical and Investigative Insights into the Deaths

The cause of Betsy Arakawa’s death was hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare and often fatal disease transmitted through contact with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents. This illness is highly contagious and can lead to severe respiratory distress, which ultimately claimed Arakawa’s life. Gene Hackman, on the other hand, died of heart disease, complicated by his advanced Alzheimer’s disease. His death was a result of natural causes, with no foul play or external factors involved. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office is still working to tie up the timeline of events, using cellphones found at the scene to piece together the final days of the couple. While the investigation is ongoing, officials have confirmed that there is no evidence of foul play or external factors contributing to their deaths. The focus now is on understanding the sequence of events that led to their tragic passing.

The Legacy of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa

Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa were more than just a couple; they were a testament to the power of love and the enduring bond between two souls. Hackman, a Hollywood icon, left behind a legacy of incredible performances that continue to inspire and entertain audiences around the world. Arakawa, with her kind heart and gentle spirit, was the rock that held their family together. Their love story, though cut short by tragedy, is one of devotion, companionship, and the deep connection that only true partners can share. Their deaths have left a void in the lives of their friends, family, and fans, but their memories will live on through the countless lives they touched.

The Impact of Their Deaths on the Community and Beyond

The deaths of Gene Hackman, Betsy Arakawa, and their beloved dog Zinna have sent shockwaves through the community of Santa Fe and beyond. The couple, who were known for their kindness and generosity, were beloved by their neighbors and friends. Their passing has left a deep sadness in the hearts of those who knew them, but it has also brought the community closer together as they remember the joy and love that the couple shared with everyone around them. Joey Padilla, who took in the couple’s two surviving dogs, spoke about the bond that Arakawa shared with Zinna, highlighting the deep love and care that the couple had for their pets. The investigation into their deaths may still be ongoing, but one thing is clear: Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa will always be remembered as a couple who loved each other, their pets, and the world around them with all their hearts. Their story is one of love, loss, and the enduring power of the human spirit.