Hackman, 95, and Arakawa, 65, were found dead by contractors alongside one of their dogs on their property on Wednesday.
During a press conference, Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza stated that the initial examination by the medical examiner showed no signs of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Carbon monoxide, which is a colorless and odorless gas produced from appliances and other items that burn fuel, can be fatal in poorly ventilated areas.
Additionally, Mendoza mentioned that a check of Hackman’s pacemaker revealed that it last recorded activity on February 17, suggesting that he may have passed away nine days before his body was discovered.
Potential Causes of Death for Hackman and his Wife
Hackman was discovered in the entrance of his home, while Arakawa was found in the bathroom lying on her side. A space heater was found near her head, and pills were scattered next to an open prescription bottle on the counter.
Toxicology tests will be conducted over the coming weeks to determine whether the pills or other medications were responsible for the deaths.
Carbon monoxide has been excluded as a possible cause of death. Dr. Michael Baden, the medical examiner, stated that even though the gas can dissipate from the environment, it cannot do so from a body.
The preliminary autopsies revealed no external trauma to either body. Investigators searched the home and retrieved medication for high blood pressure, chest pain, thyroid problems, Tylenol, and records from medical diagnostic tests, according to court records filed on Friday.
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A Private Couple
Investigators are searching for answers to the deaths they have deemed suspicious enough to warrant a thorough search and investigation.
They plan to go through the couple’s phones, monthly planners, and reach out to family members, neighbors, and workers from the gated community. It is currently unknown when anyone last saw or spoke with Hackman or Arakawa.
The couple was described as “very private” by Mendoza, which he noted made creating a timeline more challenging.
Mendoza also mentioned that the residence did not appear to have any surveillance cameras.
Edited by: Sean M. Sinico
