Gene Hackman, American actor renowned for his performances in films such as The French Connection and Superman, has passed away at the age of 95.
His body was discovered alongside that of his wife, Betsy Arakawa, and their dog at their home at Santa Fe, New Mexico.
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Authorities have described the circumstances as “suspicious” and are conducting a thorough investigation.
Hackman, born on January 30, 1930, in San Bernardino, California, embarked on his acting career in the late 1950s.
He gained prominence with his role as Buck Barrow in Bonnie and Clyde (1967), earning his first Academy Award nomination.
His portrayal of Jimmy “Popeye” Doyle in The French Connection (1971) secured him the Oscar for Best Actor.
In his later years, Hackman retired from acting and focused on writing novels.
He married classical pianist Betsy Arakawa in 1991, and the couple resided in Santa Fe.
The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Department is investigating the deaths, claiming that the couple appeared to have died at least a day before their bodies were discovered.
Preliminary findings indicate no obvious signs of a gas leak or carbon monoxide exposure.
New Mexico Gas Company has responded, saying: “As of now, there are no signs or evidence indicating there were any problems associated to the pipes in and around the residence.”
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are exploring all possibilities, including accidental causes.
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