Hollywood legend Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa were found dead dead at their home in New Mexico, with many mysteries arising from the double tragedy
Another twist in the tragic tale of Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa has come up. The duo, whose bodies were found partially decomposed and mummified at their home, in February this year.
In the weeks since, details have emerged, including the time frame of their deaths. It’s reported that Betsy died before Gene – however it was later claimed that she called a doctor 24 hours after cops said she had died.
Now, another hurdle has come into play as Gene’s children wait for details of his will to emerge. It’s reported that the decision on where the Hollywood legend and his wife will be buried.
They lived in New Mexico, however his children Christopher, Elizabeth and Leslie live in California. And it sounds as though the decision could be drawn out.
Estate planning attorney Laura Cowan told DailyMail.com: “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.
The Oscar-winner left his fortune to his wife. However given that she seemingly died before him, their wills could also get complicated.
It’s not clear if his three children from his previous marriage were left anything.
Gene and Betsy’s bodies were found on February 26. In newly released footage from a bodycam, a handyman at the house can be heard saying: “Something’s not right.”
The couple was found dead as well as one of their dogs. Their other two dogs were found wandering around the home.
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It’s believed that Gene died on February 18 from severe heart disease.
He also had advanced Alzheimer’s disease, which is listed as a “significant” contributing factor.
Meanwhile, it’s believed Betsy died around a week earlier.
According to the New Mexico medical investigator’s office, she died of hantavirus pulmanory syndrome – an severe respiratory illness which comes from rodents.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
