The two dogs found alive at the home of Gene Hackman are now safe

According to an update from the Santa Fe County Sheriff on Facebook: "The Santa Fe County Animal Control Division worked with family to ensure the safety of the two dogs."

The update laid out the series of events that led to the discovery of the bodies after a maintenance worker raised the alarm.

The press release stated: "On Wednesday February 26, 2025, at approximately 1:45 p.m., Santa Fe County Sheriff's deputies were dispatched to an address on Old Sunset Trail where Gene Hackman, 95 and his wife Betsy Arakawa, 65 and a dog were found deceased. An individual arrived to perform maintenance on the residence, became concerned after receiving no answer, and contacted neighborhood security to conduct a welfare check. Security then checked on the residence and observed Hackman and Arakawa on the ground unresponsive through a window and called 911.

"Deputies arrived and gained access to the residence where they observed Mrs. Arakawa deceased. They continued their search of the home and located Mr. Hackman in another area, also deceased. A dog was also found deceased and two other dogs who appeared healthy were located on the property. Deputies then secured the scene and notified the criminal investigations division."

The bodies underwent autopsies and the sheriff explained the investigation remains ongoing.

The statement added: "In the early hours of Thursday, February 27, 2025, Hackman and Arakawa were transported to the Office of the Medical Investigator. An autopsy was performed. Initial findings noted no external trauma to either individual. Carbon monoxide and toxicology tests were requested for both individuals. The manner and cause of death has not been determined. The official results of the autopsy and toxicology reports are pending. This remains an open investigation."