Authorities investigating the unexplained deaths of renowned actor Gene Hackman, his wife Betsy Arakawa, and their dog have completed autopsies on the two victims. However, the cause of their deaths remains a mystery as officials await toxicology results.

No External Trauma, No Signs of Foul Play

Investigators found no external trauma on either Hackman or Arakawa, who were discovered deceased inside their $3.8 million home in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Despite speculation, initial findings do not indicate foul play.

Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza stated on Thursday, “Initial findings noted no external trauma to either individual.” However, the official cause of death remains unknown.

The Santa Fe City Fire Department and the New Mexico Gas Company tested the home for carbon monoxide and other hazardous substances but found no indications of a leak. According to an affidavit, “New Mexico Gas Company responded to the residence and was testing the gas line in and around the residence. At this time, there are no indications or proof that the pipes in and around the house have ever had any issues.”

Family Grapples with Loss and Unanswered Questions

Leslie Anne Hackman, one of Gene’s daughters, shared that she and her sister Elizabeth Jean initially suspected carbon monoxide poisoning. However, with that ruled out, the family remains uncertain about what led to the couple’s deaths.

“There was no indication that there was any problem,” Leslie, 58, stated. “He was in very good physical condition despite his age.” She added that Hackman had not undergone any major surgeries recently and remained active, practicing yoga and Pilates multiple times a week.

The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office reported that the bodies may have been in the home for at least a day, though some estimates suggest they could have been deceased for up to two weeks. According to an arrest warrant obtained by DailyMail.com, both bodies showed signs of decomposition and partial mummification, likely due to the dry, cold desert air.

Scene of Discovery Raises More Questions

Hackman was found in a mudroom near the kitchen, with his cane and sunglasses on the ground beside him, suggesting he may have fallen. Arakawa’s body was discovered in the bathroom, near an open bottle of prescription medication on the countertop. Neither showed visible injuries.

The timeline of events remains unclear. Authorities did not make the couple’s deaths public until after midnight on Thursday morning, implying it took several hours to identify their bodies.

Local officials estimate that the final autopsy and toxicology reports could take four to six weeks.

A Community in Mourning

Santa Fe Mayor Alan Webber paid tribute to Hackman during an interview with NBC News Now’s Tom Llamas, describing him as a “gracious, friendly” man who treated everyone with kindness.

“He was a good fit,” Webber said. “Here in Santa Fe, these two individuals are just regular people who belong to the community, despite their enormous talent, gifts, and international reputations.”

Hackman and Arakawa were married for 34 years after tying the knot in 1991. Reflecting on their relationship, Leslie credited Arakawa for her father’s longevity. “Their marriage was fantastic,” she said. “And I give credit to his wife, Betsy, for keeping him alive.”

As the investigation continues, the world waits for answers about the tragic loss of a Hollywood legend and his beloved wife.