Pathologists Explain How ‘Mummification’ Complicates the Timeline of Gene Hackman and His Wife’s Deaths (Exclusive)
Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were found dead in their Santa Fe, N.M., home on Feb. 26.
Discovery of the Bodies
When authorities entered the two-story residence around 2 p.m., they first found Betsy, 65, lying on her side on the bathroom floor near a countertop. She was dressed in dark gray sweatpants and a light-colored sweatshirt. A space heater was found near her head, and pills were scattered on the countertop.
A Santa Fe County Sheriff’s officer noted in a search warrant affidavit obtained by PEOPLE that Betsy displayed signs of body decomposition, including bloating in her face and mummification in both hands and feet. The couple’s dog was also found dead in a closet nearby.
Officers later discovered Hackman, 94, in the mudroom, dressed in gray sweatpants and a blue long-sleeved T-shirt. Sunglasses and a walking cane were found near his body, suggesting he may have fallen suddenly.
Authorities found no signs of a break-in or forced entry, and nothing appeared out of place.
Challenges in Determining Time of Death
More than 10 days later, the cause of death for both remains a mystery.
“Forensic pathologists rely on various indicators to determine the time of death, but once a body is significantly decomposed, those markers become less reliable,” forensic pathologist Judy Melinek tells PEOPLE.
“In the early stages after death, we use factors like rigor mortis (body stiffening) and algor mortis (body temperature). But once the body decomposes, it becomes much harder,” she explains. “Investigators then turn to circumstantial evidence—when they were last seen, unopened mail, phone activity, or when they last logged into a computer.”
Impact of Mummification
Mummification, which occurs in dry environments, further complicates determining the order of deaths. James Gill, Chief Medical Examiner for Connecticut, explains: “Once mummification sets in, it becomes impossible to establish an accurate timeline. Factors like room temperature, clothing, exposure to sunlight, and the presence of heaters all impact decomposition rates.”
Authorities previously ruled out carbon monoxide poisoning as a cause of death. The investigation remains ongoing.