Court Restricts Access to Documents Regarding Gene Hackman's Death

In the aftermath of the passing of legendary actor Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa, a Santa Fe judge has ruled that several documents pertaining to the investigation into their deaths will remain sealed for the time being. This decision came at the request of the couple's estate administrator. Among the items being withheld are photographs and videos depicting the deceased couple.

However, the judge has determined that other investigative materials, including autopsy reports, should be made available to the public. This ruling arrives following the discovery of Hackman and Arakawa's bodies in their Santa Fe home in February, where Hackman was found at the age of 95 and Arakawa at 64.

Initial reports suggest that Betsy Arakawa may have succumbed to an illness caused by hantaviruses, while Gene Hackman is believed to have died from cardiovascular complications. Additionally, a dog was found deceased at the scene, with autopsy findings indicating it likely died from dehydration, while two other dogs were rescued alive.

Gene Hackman is widely regarded as one of the most significant actors of his generation, having received two Academy Awards for his performances in films such as The French Connection (1971), The Conversation (1974), and Unforgiven (1992). After a successful career in Hollywood, he retired in the early 2000s and spent his later years with Arakawa in Santa Fe.