Autopsies have been completed on the two victims involved in the mysterious deaths of renowned actor Gene Hackman, his wife, and their dog.
Investigators have found no signs of external trauma on the bodies of Hackman and Betsy Arakawa, who tragically died inside their $3.8 million home in Santa Fe, New Mexico, leaving many to speculate about the cause of their deaths.
Though the autopsies were finished early on Thursday morning, authorities are still waiting for the complete results and a toxicology report.
Leslie Anne Hackman, one of Gene’s three children, previously shared with DailyMail.com that she and her sister Elizabeth Jean believed the couple might have died from inhaling poisonous fumes, possibly from a carbon monoxide leak.
However, after the bodies were found, the Santa Fe City Fire Department and the New Mexico Gas Company tested the house for carbon monoxide and other harmful substances and determined the home was safe.
An affidavit stated: “New Mexico Gas Company responded to the residence and tested the gas line in and around the property. There are no indications or evidence that the pipes in or around the house had any issues.”
“Initial findings revealed no external trauma to either individual,” Sheriff Adan Mendoza stated Thursday afternoon.
No signs of foul play have been found. The exact cause of death remains unclear, and the investigation is ongoing.
In an interview with NBC News Now’s Tom Llamas on Thursday afternoon, Santa Fe Mayor Alan Webber paid tribute to the legendary actor, calling him a “gracious, friendly” celebrity who “treated everyone well.”
“He fit in perfectly,” Webber remarked. “In Santa Fe, these two were just regular people, despite their immense talent, gifts, and international recognition. They were part of our community.”
Santa Fe, he noted, is a welcoming destination for world-renowned celebrities, but they are always seen as part of the local fabric.
Leslie Hackman, 58, shared that her family is still grappling with the loss, as there were no signs of any issues with her father before his death.
“He was in excellent physical condition, despite his age,” she revealed, adding that her father had not undergone any major surgeries in the months prior. He continued to practice yoga and pilates several times a week, enjoying these activities, which contributed to his good health.
Before deputies discovered their bodies, they had been in the house for at least a day. Some speculate they could have been dead for up to two weeks.
An arrest warrant obtained by DailyMail.com reveals that the bodies were found partially mummified and showing signs of decomposition. The dry, cold air of the New Mexico desert likely preserved their skin and tissues.
The news of the couple’s deaths was not made public until after midnight Thursday morning, suggesting it took hours to identify their bodies.
Hackman was found in a mudroom near the kitchen. His cane and sunglasses were found nearby, raising concerns that he may have fallen and died.
Arakawa’s body was discovered on the bathroom floor. A partially scattered open bottle of prescription medication was found on a nearby countertop.
Neither of the bodies showed signs of injuries.
Local officials have indicated that it may take four to six weeks for the official autopsy results to be released.
Before their untimely deaths, Gene and Betsy had been married for 34 years, having tied the knot in 1991.
Leslie described their marriage as wonderful, adding, “And I give credit to his wife, Betsy, for keeping him alive.”