The world is mourning the loss of legendary actor Gene Hackman, who was found dead in his Santa Fe, New Mexico, home on Wednesday. His wife, Betsy Arakawa, and their dog were also discovered deceased alongside him. Hackman, who had recently celebrated his 95th birthday, was widely respected for his contributions to Hollywood, making his sudden passing all the more shocking and heartbreaking.

Authorities were called to the residence after a concerned neighbor requested a welfare check. Upon arrival, they made the devastating discovery. While there were no immediate signs of foul play, an investigation is currently underway to determine the exact cause of death.

Hackman’s daughter, Elizabeth Jean Hackman, spoke to TMZ and shared her concerns about what might have led to the tragedy. She suggested that carbon monoxide poisoning could be the cause, noting that while their home was built in 2000 and considered fairly modern, there was uncertainty about potential gas leaks or heating system issues. In response, emergency personnel from the gas company and fire department were dispatched to inspect the premises and ensure there were no lingering toxic fumes.

The loss of Hackman is particularly heartbreaking given the quiet life he had embraced in retirement. After stepping away from Hollywood in 2004, he and his wife relocated to New Mexico, where he spent his time painting and enjoying a more peaceful existence. Despite his decision to retreat from the public eye, Hackman’s influence in the film industry remained as strong as ever. With over 70 films to his credit, his role in The French Connection is often cited as one of his most memorable performances.

In a 2009 interview, Hackman shared insight into his decision to leave acting, revealing that health concerns played a significant role. He recalled undergoing a stress test in New York that forced him to reevaluate his priorities. “The straw that broke the camel’s back was actually a stress test,” he told Empire. “The doctor advised me that my heart wasn’t in the kind of shape that I should be putting it under any stress.” That realization led him to step away from his decades-long career and focus on his health.

Though Elizabeth did not provide further details about her father’s health in recent years, she did reference one of his rare public appearances last March. At the time, Hackman was seen using a cane and receiving support from Betsy. His frail appearance raised concerns among fans about his well-being.

Hackman and Arakawa, who had been married since 1991, shared a loving bond for over three decades. Their sudden passing has left family, friends, and fans in shock. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office, led by Sheriff Adan Mendoza, is overseeing the investigation. While no evidence of foul play has been found, authorities are being thorough in examining all possible causes.

As news of Hackman’s passing spread, tributes began pouring in from fellow actors, filmmakers, and admirers. Social media has been flooded with messages celebrating his incredible career and the impact he had on the film industry. His performances in classics like The French Connection, Unforgiven, and The Conversation showcased his ability to portray complex characters with authenticity, cementing his place as one of Hollywood’s greatest talents.

While the investigation into his passing continues, the Hackman family remains focused on finding answers. The possibility that carbon monoxide poisoning played a role in this tragedy highlights the importance of regular maintenance for heating systems, gas appliances, and carbon monoxide detectors to prevent similar incidents.

Gene Hackman’s passing marks the end of an era, but his remarkable legacy will continue to inspire future generations of actors and film enthusiasts. His dedication to his craft, his ability to captivate audiences, and his unwavering presence in the industry ensured that he would be remembered as one of the all-time greats. Though the world has lost an extraordinary talent, his influence will live on through the unforgettable characters he brought to life on screen. As fans grieve his loss, they also celebrate the incredible body of work he leaves behind—a testament to his brilliance in Hollywood.