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Gene Hackman and Wife Removed from “Unclaimed Decedents” List Amid Family Claim Speculation
The names of acclaimed actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, have been removed from the “unclaimed decedents” list maintained by the New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator (OMI). This development follows reports suggesting their remains had not been claimed by relatives, fueling speculation of a potential family dispute. While the Hackmans were listed on the OMI website as late as Thursday evening, their names were absent by Friday morning, as reported by People.
Names Removed from Unclaimed Decedents List
According to the Office of the Medical Investigator’s website, an “unclaimed decedent” is defined as an identified individual for whom next-of-kin have not been located. However, a representative from the medical examiner’s office clarified that inclusion on this list does not necessarily indicate abandonment. The representative told People that “in many cases, OMI is in contact with legal next of kin, and plans are underway to transport the body to a funeral home or place of burial.”
The removal of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa’s names follows reports that their remains had allegedly gone unclaimed for a month after their deaths, adding to the initial confusion surrounding their listing.
Details of Deaths in Santa Fe
The couple was discovered deceased in separate rooms of their Santa Fe, New Mexico residence in February, alongside one of their three dogs. Gene Hackman was 95 years old, and Betsy Arakawa was 65. The official causes of death were disclosed in March. Authorities confirmed that Betsy Arakawa, a pianist, succumbed to hantavirus, a virus associated with rodent droppings. Gene Hackman, the acclaimed Oscar-winning actor, passed away a week later due to a combination of health issues, including severe heart disease, hypertension, and advanced Alzheimer’s disease.
Dog’s Demise and Estate Matters
It is believed that their dog, Zinna, also perished at the residence due to dehydration and starvation.
Uncertainty Surrounds $80 Million Fortune
Questions remain regarding the distribution of the late actor’s estimated $80 million fortune, initially expected to be inherited by his wife.
Betsy Arakawa’s Will
However, Betsy Arakawa’s will reportedly stipulated that her assets would be placed in a trust, designated for distribution to charitable organizations and to cover outstanding medical expenses.