Local News
Legendary Actor Gene Hackman, Wife, and Dog Found Dead in Santa Fe Home
Santa Fe, NM – Two-time Academy Award-winning actor Gene Hackman was found dead in his Santa Fe, New Mexico home alongside his wife, Betsy Arakawa, and their dog, according to reports from The Santa Fe New Mexican.
Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza confirmed the discovery just after midnight on Thursday, following a welfare check conducted at the residence.
Authorities responded to the home after a concerned neighbor requested a welfare check, but no official cause of death has been released.
The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office stated that no foul play is suspected at this time.
Gene Hackman, 95, was widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of his generation.
With a career spanning over five decades, he won two Academy Awards, three Golden Globe Awards, and the prestigious Cecil B. DeMille Award for lifetime achievement.
Hackman’s breakout role came in 1971’s The French Connection, where he played Detective Popeye Doyle, a performance that earned him his first Oscar for Best Actor.
He later won his second Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor in Clint Eastwood’s Unforgiven (1992), in which he portrayed Sheriff Little Bill Daggett.
His other iconic performances included roles in:
- 1978’s Superman and 1980’s Superman II, where he played the infamous villain Lex Luthor
- 1986’s Hoosiers, where he starred as a small-town basketball coach in a beloved sports drama
- 1988’s Mississippi Burning, where he played an FBI agent investigating racial violence in the South
Despite his critical and commercial success, Hackman retired from acting in 2004, opting for a quieter life in New Mexico, where he focused on writing novels and enjoying time with his wife.
Born in San Bernardino, California, in 1930, Hackman’s path to stardom was unconventional. At the age of 16, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, lying about his age to join. He served four and a half years, an experience that shaped his discipline and work ethic.
After his military service, Hackman pursued journalism and television production before ultimately enrolling in the Pasadena Playhouse at age 27.
There, he formed a lifelong friendship with fellow aspiring actor Dustin Hoffman.
Hackman often spoke about how his difficult childhood shaped his sensitivity to human behavior, once recalling how his father walked out on the family, a moment that profoundly influenced his approach to acting. “I doubt I would’ve become so sensitive to human behavior if that hadn’t happened to me as a child,” he told Vanity Fair in 2013.
Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were married for 34 years. Arakawa, a classical pianist, was known for supporting Hackman’s career and his transition into retirement. She was 63 years old at the time of her passing.
Hackman leaves behind a towering legacy in Hollywood, revered for his versatility, depth, and ability to bring unforgettable characters to life.
His impact on cinema remains profound, and he will be remembered as one of the most accomplished actors in film history.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Deputy Sheriff Carl “Little Chief” Jensen, a deeply respected and dedicated member of the Little River County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputy Jensen was found deceased earlier this evening after he did not report for his scheduled shift.
Deputy Jensen was more than a colleague—he was a cherished brother in uniform, a trusted protector of the community, and a steadfast public servant whose presence will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege of working alongside him.
Carl’s journey into law enforcement was driven by a passion to protect those who could not protect themselves.
After completing college, he began his career with Adult Protective Services, investigating allegations of abuse and exploitation in state hospitals, group homes, and home health care settings.
It was during one such case—uncovering the truth behind a complex exploitation investigation—that Carl realized his calling. “I got bit by the law enforcement bug that day,” he once said. “I wanted to help protect and bring justice to those who need it.”
Throughout his career, Deputy Jensen demonstrated extraordinary empathy, integrity, and resilience. He often reflected on the emotional weight of his work, especially when responding to calls on what could be the most difficult days in people’s lives.
“Sometimes, people don’t realize that we’re there to help everyone involved,” he shared. “Even on what could be their worst day, I can do my best to make it better—or at least keep them calm.” His compassion and humanity set an example for us all.
Our deepest condolences and unwavering support go out to Deputy Jensen’s family during this incredibly painful time.
We ask the community to join us in keeping his loved ones and our department in your thoughts and prayers as we grieve this heartbreaking loss.
Deputy Carl Jensen’s legacy of service, kindness, and courage will never be forgotten.
We are grateful for his life, his dedication, and the profound impact he had on those he served and served with.