A forensic pathologist has speculated about the unusual circumstances surrounding the tragic deaths of legendary actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Awakawa, who were discovered at their home in New Mexico last week. Dr. Michael Baden, appearing on FOX Report, suggested that details from Hackman's pacemaker could shed light on the couple's mysterious deaths. According to the sheriff, the pacemaker last recorded an event on February 17, which could be crucial for understanding what transpired.
Baden explained, “That event would have been a cardiac arrest caused by an abnormal pulse rate. The pacemaker keeps track of the pulse, and when it gets down too low, it discharges. And that’s all in the record.” He further stated, “So the autopsy showed he didn’t have any injury. There was no carbon monoxide. And he had — the most common cause of death in this country — severe heart disease, coronary artery disease, and high blood pressure perhaps, from what’s been released.” This information suggests that Hackman may have suffered a cardiac arrest in the mudroom, leading to his sudden collapse.
Local authorities are treating the deaths of Hackman, 95, and Awakawa, 63, with suspicion, prompting a thorough investigation. A police affidavit obtained by TMZ on February 27 reveals that officers found the front door of the residence unsecured and open. Several concerning details were reported, including a healthy dog running loose on the property, another dog near Awakawa, and a deceased dog found in a closet just 10 to 15 feet from her body.
The affidavit details that the heater was moved, an open pill bottle was found with pills scattered next to Awakawa, and Hackman was located in a separate room near the kitchen. Awakawa was discovered lying on the ground in the bathroom, with a black space heater near her head. It is believed that the heater may have fallen after she collapsed. Remarkably, Awakawa appeared to have been deceased for some time prior to discovery, as her body showed signs of decomposition, including bloating and mummification.
Hackman was reportedly found fully clothed, near the kitchen, and it is suspected he may have fallen, as his sunglasses were located next to him. The local fire department conducted inspections and confirmed that there were no signs of a carbon monoxide leak or poisoning, which had initially been a concern for Hackman's family. The affidavit stated that there is currently no evidence indicating any issues related to the pipes in and around the residence.
Gene Hackman, a two-time Academy Award winner, and Betsy Awakawa had been married for 34 years. Police reportedly discovered the couple around 1:45 p.m. local time on Wednesday, February 26. Hackman's illustrious acting career spanned over 60 years, during which he delivered unforgettable performances in iconic roles. He is best known for portraying Jimmy Doyle in The French Connection (1971) and Little Bill Daggett in Unforgiven (1992), earning him Academy Awards for Best Actor and Best Supporting Actor, respectively. Additionally, Hackman received nominations for Best Supporting Actor in Bonnie & Clyde (1968) and I Never Sang for My Father (1971), as well as a Best Actor nomination for Mississippi Burning (1989).
