The unexpected death of Hollywood legend Gene Hackman has left investigators puzzled, and now a former FBI agent is floating a new theory—food poisoning. In a case that has so far ruled out gas leaks, foul play, and even suicide, the idea that tainted leftovers could have taken down one of America’s greatest actors and his wife has suddenly entered the discussion.
Hackman, 95, was found dead on the floor of his Santa Fe, New Mexico home, next to his walking cane, as if he had just come in from outside. His wife, Betsy Arakawa, was discovered in the bathroom, surrounded by scattered prescription pills. It’s a tragic scene that has sparked more questions than answers.
At first, investigators suspected carbon monoxide poisoning, but that theory was ruled out. Now, retired FBI agent Bill Daly has suggested that something far more mundane—and yet just as deadly—may have been at play. Speaking to Fox News, Daly proposed that authorities should be looking into the couple’s food.
“Toxicology – there could have been some other type of poisoning, possibly food? They’ll go through their trash, fridge … this is stuff the police can do in the meantime while gathering evidence,” Daly explained.
The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office has maintained that there is no evidence of foul play. No signs of forced entry, no external trauma, nothing to suggest a violent struggle. The couple was found by a housekeeper more than a week after their deaths, preserved only by the winter air. Adding another eerie layer to the scene, two of their three dogs were found roaming the property, while their German Shepherd was discovered dead beside them.
Hackman’s pacemaker data provided another crucial clue: his last recorded heartbeat was on February 17th, 2025, meaning he had been dead for nine days before being discovered. Sheriff Adan Mendoza reiterated that there is no immediate evidence of a break-in, despite reports that the door was slightly ajar when authorities arrived.
So, could food poisoning really be the culprit? While rare, fatal cases do occur, especially in older individuals. At 95, Hackman was certainly vulnerable, and at 65, his wife may have been at risk as well. But until toxicology reports come back, this remains just another theory in a case filled with eerie unknowns.
The sudden loss of Gene Hackman is a tragedy for Hollywood and his many fans. Whether this was an unfortunate accident or something more sinister, people will be searching for answers.
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