Gene Hackman estate attempted to block photos of actor, Betsy Arakawa death investigation

Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa’s estate is currently working to prevent the release of photos, videos, and police bodycam footage related to the couple’s tragic deaths. The couple’s lawyer, Kurt Sommer, filed a petition in state District Court in Santa Fe to stop the medical investigator and the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office from releasing any footage.

The petition argues that the release of the couple’s autopsy and death investigation materials should be blocked until their deaths can be properly litigated. Sommer emphasized in the petition that once these images are made public, it is impossible to reverse the impact it may have on the couple’s privacy.

Summarizing the key points of the petition, Sommer highlighted the importance of respecting the couple’s right to privacy over the public interest in their deaths. He cited a similar case involving Kurt Cobain’s death, where court refused to release death-scene photographs, to support his argument.

Gene and Betsy were known for valuing their privacy during their lifetime, and their estate seeks to continue preserving that privacy even after their tragic deaths. The petition stresses the family’s constitutional right to remember and grieve in peace.

The petition also reveals details about Gene and Betsy’s private lifestyle in Santa Fe, where they lived discreetly for over thirty years without showcasing their wealth or status. The couple’s estate is represented by Julia Peters, who was Gene’s third choice of estate representative after Betsy and attorney Michael G. Sutin, who passed away in 2019.

The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Department confirmed that Betsy likely died on February 11, followed by Gene a week later. Betsy’s cause of death was determined to be hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, while Gene passed away from hypertensive atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease with Alzheimer’s disease as a contributing factor.

The autopsy revealed Gene had severe heart disease and evidence of prior heart attacks, along with advanced Alzheimer’s disease. Betsy’s last known activity before her death on February 11 included a visit to a grocery store, pharmacy, and pet store. She returned to their gated community around 5:15 p.m., suggesting she passed away first.

In conclusion, the estate is taking legal action to protect the couple’s privacy and prevent the release of sensitive materials related to their deaths. The petition emphasizes the importance of respecting the family’s wishes and allowing them to mourn in peace.