A couple from New Mexico, who were close friends of the legendary actor Gene Hackman and his wife, classical pianist Betsy Arakawa, have shared their poignant last interactions with the Oscar-winning actor and his spouse. Daniel Lenihan recounted to CNN's Erin Burnett that "the last time that we saw them, they were alive and well." The Lenihans resided just a short 10-minute drive from Hackman and Arakawa in the picturesque city of Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Daniel Lenihan has had a friendship with Hackman dating back to 1992. His wife, Barbara Lenihan, operated a home decor shop in Santa Fe, where she frequently interacted with Betsy Arakawa. "I’ve seen Betsy recently because she drops in the shop," Barbara shared with CNN, noting that Arakawa visited her store just a couple of weeks ago.
In a touching moment, Barbara Lenihan revealed that their son, Brendan Lenihan, had received an exciting message from Arakawa just "two to three weeks ago" regarding the anticipated arrival of Brendan's child. Barbara recounted, "Brendan was telling Betsy it was a boy, and she was very excited." It was a brief interaction, and Brendan had hoped to hear back from her soon.
Tragically, Gene Hackman, aged 95, and Betsy Arakawa, aged 65, were discovered deceased in their home on Wednesday, alongside one of their three dogs. Early investigations revealed that their bodies indicated they had been deceased for several days. Data from Hackman's pacemaker suggested that his last day of life was on February 17, just nine days prior to the discovery of their bodies.
The investigation into the unusual circumstances surrounding their deaths is ongoing. Authorities found the couple in separate rooms, with Hackman appearing to have collapsed suddenly. Betsy Arakawa was found near an open bottle of pills, and one of their dogs, a German shepherd, was discovered deceased inside a kennel adjacent to her body. Fortunately, two other dogs were found alive elsewhere in the residence.
Preliminary examinations revealed no apparent signs of external trauma to either body, and both tested negative for carbon monoxide poisoning. Barbara Lenihan expressed her shock, stating that she and her husband have "no idea" what may have transpired with their dear friends.
This tragic event has left many in the community mourning the loss of two beloved figures. As the investigation continues, friends and fans alike are left to reflect on the legacy of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa.
