Top pathologist casts doubt on Gene Hackman cause of death theory

The cause of death for Gene and Betsy Hackman remains unconfirmed, but a pathologist has cast doubt on the theory that the couple died together in a ‘companion suicide’

Gene Hackman was found dead alongside his wife Betsy(Image: (Image: Getty))

A renowned pathologist has shed light on the mysterious circumstances surrounding Gene Hackman’s death, casting doubt on the “companion suicide” theory. The legendary actor and his wife Betsy were discovered deceased in their Santa Fe residence last week, with experts estimating that their bodies had lain undiscovered for over 10 days, showing signs of “mummification” and decay.

In a conversation with People magazine, Connecticut’s Chief Medical Examiner James Gill expressed scepticism regarding the idea that the couple had ended their lives together. He pointed out: “I’ve seen cases like that – usually they’re together in bed. The fact that they’re in two separate locations tells me that I think that’s less likely.”

He added: “From the initial kind of circumstances, it seems like he may have collapsed – he’s got a history of heart disease. He’s got a pacemaker. So that would not be unusual.”

Gill also refuted the notion that Gene might have died due to dehydration following Betsy’s earlier death, noting that Gene was not confined to bed and could still move around without assistance.

Picture of actor Gene Hackman and wife Betsy Arakawa, pictured in 1986

Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa were found dead in their Santa Fe home(Image: Getty)

Gill went on to ask one of the most important questions of the investigation, wondering: “What’s the time [of Gene’s death] related to his wife? When did she die? That’s a little bit more of a grey area, I think.”

As for their pet dog, who was also found dead, he surmised that there simply wasn’t enough food or water available in its location.

It comes after cops admitted to an error in their investigation – misidentifying the dog who was found dead at the scene.

It was initially thought that Bear, a German Shepherd, had died, but Bear was alive with their other dog Nikita, an Akita-shepherd mix.

Instead, 12-year-old Australian Kelpie mix Zinna was found dead at the scene.

The reason for the mix-up in the police report regarding the identity of the dog remains unclear.

Join our WhatsApp Top Stories and, Breaking News group by clicking this link