An examination of the dog found dead alongside actor Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Hackman in their Santa Fe home reveals that dehydration and starvation were likely the primary causes of the animal's tragic demise. A report obtained by The Associated Press from the state Department of Agriculture’s veterinary lab indicates signs of partial mummification. The report also noted that while severe decomposition might have obscured potential changes in the internal organs, there was no evidence of infectious disease, trauma, or poisoning that could have contributed to the dog's death.
The report further detailed that the dog's stomach was predominantly empty, containing only small amounts of hair and bile. The kelpie mix, affectionately named Zinna, was one of the couple's three dogs. Zinna was found deceased in a crate located in a bathroom closet, near the body of Betsy Hackman, while the couple's two other dogs survived the ordeal.
Authorities confirmed last week that Gene Hackman passed away from heart disease, which was complicated by Alzheimer’s disease. This occurred approximately one week after his wife, Betsy Hackman, tragically succumbed to a rare, rodent-borne illness known as hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. Reports suggest that Gene Hackman, who was in the advanced stages of Alzheimer’s, was likely unaware of his wife's death at the time.
Gene Hackman was discovered in the entryway of their home, while Betsy Hackman was found in a bathroom. Similar to Zinna, their bodies exhibited signs of decomposition, including mummification, a condition often exacerbated by the dry climate of Santa Fe, situated at an elevation of nearly 7,200 feet (2,200 meters). Although both deaths were ruled as natural causes, the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office is conducting a thorough investigation to finalize the timeline, utilizing information gleaned from cellphones collected from the residence and the last known contacts made.
Zinna's journey began as a returned shelter dog, eventually becoming an incredible companion who was always by Betsy Hackman’s side. Joey Padilla, the owner of the Santa Fe Tails pet care facility, highlighted the bond between Zinna and Betsy, emphasizing the love and care that the dog received. The surviving dogs are now under the protection of the facility, ensuring their safety and well-being after such a traumatic event.
Betsy Hackman, originally from Hawaii, had a rich background as a concert pianist and pursued her studies at the University of Southern California. She met Gene Hackman in the mid-1980s while working at a California gym, leading to a partnership that spanned decades. Gene Hackman, a Hollywood legend, won two Oscars during his illustrious career, starring in iconic films such as The French Connection, Hoosiers, and Superman, before retiring in the early 2000s.
This heartbreaking series of events serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring bonds between humans and their beloved pets.
