Betsy Arakawa’s Emergency Calls Raise Questions in Gene Hackman Case

Santa Fe, New Mexico — Newly obtained phone records reveal that Betsy Arakawa, the widow of actor Gene Hackman, called for medical assistance on Feb. 12, 2025, one day after she was presumed dead, prompting further investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death.

The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office confirmed on March 18, 2025, that Arakawa made three calls to Cloudberry Health, a medical center in Santa Fe, on the morning of Feb. 12. This finding contradicts earlier estimates from a New Mexico medical examiner, who last noted her activity on Feb. 11, 2025.

According to Denise Womack, a spokesperson for the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office, the new information has raised numerous questions. “Pending cell phone records, the last known activity of Mrs. Hackman was determined to be on February 11, 2025,” Womack stated. “However, her phone was indeed used to contact a medical center the following morning.”

Details released by the sheriff’s office indicate that one of the calls appeared as a missed incoming call, though it remains unclear whether Arakawa herself placed the calls. The nature of these communications has not been disclosed.

During a press conference on March 7, 2025, Dr. Heather Jarrell, the chief medical investigator, said it was reasonable to conclude that Arakawa had died on the same day that her last known communication took place. “We believed that her last confirmed activity was on February 11,” said Jarrell. “But we are reevaluating all available evidence.”

The New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator, tasked with determining the cause of Arakawa’s death, indicated they are still examining the case and have not released further information. They reported that she is suspected to have died from leptospirosis, a serious illness caused by a bacteria that can spread through contaminated water.

Gene Hackman, Arakawa’s husband of over 60 years, passed away shortly before, suffering from complications related to Alzheimer’s disease and cardiovascular issues. The couple was known for their close bond and charitable works throughout their lives.

As the investigation continues into the timeline surrounding Betsy Arakawa’s death, it has garnered significant media attention, with the public trying to understand the full circumstances. “This situation is indeed perplexing,” Womack noted. “We urge anyone with additional information to come forward.”

The sheriff’s office has stated that they are committed to uncovering the truth. “Every detail matters in our investigation,” Womack added. “We are following all leads to ensure complete transparency.”