Another heartbreaking chapter could emerge following the tragic deaths of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa, according to a report.
The bodies of the two-time Oscar winner and Arakawa were found at their Santa Fe, New Mexico home on Feb. 26. Authorities were called to the scene after a security guard in the area saw their bodies through a window.
Investigators made it clear early that they didn’t believe there was foul play, though the deaths were considered suspicious.
It was later determined that Betsy Arakawa died around Feb. 12 from Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, with Hackman apparently dying six days later. Gene Hackman was battling heart disease and Alzheimer’s, so it’s believed he was unable to fully understand the circumstances as they were happening before he passed away.
Unfortunately, the heartbreaking saga may be far from over.
Estate planning attorney Laura Cowan told the Daily Mail that legal issues could ensue between the legendary actor’s children that would delay a decision on what to do with Hackman and Arakawa’s remains:
“If his children wanted his remains handled in California, and he left no legally binding burial or cremation instructions, what happens next depends on a combination of state laws, family dynamic and logistics.
If Gene’s children disagree about what should happen to his body, and no written directive exists, things can get complicated. The dispute could end up in court, and a judge would decide based on state law and other factors.”
Hackman was said to have had several health issues in the final years of his life and was rarely seen out in public. Arakawa had an appointment scheduled with a physician on Feb. 12 but never arrived. She was reportedly last seen the day before arriving at the couple’s home.
Gene Hackman Didn’t Name Children In His Will
Hackman and his first wife, Faye Maltese, had three children before their divorce in 1986. His will, which doesn’t name the children, is reportedly worth $80 million. Hackman reportedly named Arakawa as the only inheritor of his estate.
Legal experts have told multiple media outlets, however, that legal matters could allow the three children to inherit Hackman’s will.
