A representative for the estate of famed actor Gene Hackman is attempting to prevent the public disclosure of autopsy and investigative documents, including sensitive photographs and police body camera footage. This follows the discovery of Hackman’s and his wife Betsy Arakawa’s partially mummified bodies at their New Mexico residence in February.
Authorities reported that Hackman, aged 95, succumbed to heart disease, complicated by Alzheimer’s, potentially around a week after Arakawa, 65, died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare rodent-borne illness. Hackman’s pacemaker indicated an abnormal heartbeat on February 18, suggesting this may have been the day he passed away.
The couple’s remains were found on February 26 by maintenance and security personnel, leading to an investigation by law enforcement and medical authorities to unravel the circumstances of their deaths. Julia Peters, representing Hackman’s estate, has requested that the state district court in Santa Fe seal these records. The aim is to safeguard the family’s privacy during their time of mourning, underscoring the potentially distressing nature of the materials involved, and the risk of them being sensationalised by the media.
The motion, submitted on Tuesday (US time), highlights the couple’s quiet lifestyle in Santa Fe after Hackman’s retirement. Known for being a haven for artists and celebrities, the couple lived a private life away from public attention, which Peters’ petition underscores.
While it is important to respect privacy, New Mexico’s open records law limits public access to certain sensitive images, particularly those depicting deceased individuals. Amanda Lavin, legal director at the New Mexico Foundation for Open Government, noted that although medical records and some information are shielded from public disclosure, death investigations and autopsy reports generally fall under public record laws meant to ensure transparency and accountability in government actions.
Lavin expressed concern that an all-encompassing prohibition on the release of these records could infringe upon public accountability, highlighting that such information is crucial for maintaining trust in investigations. She also pointed out that the presence of hantavirus presents a significant public health concern, adding another layer of complexity to the case.
The request for a preventive ruling on these records is considered rare. Hackman, celebrated for his illustrious career, won two Academy Awards and is best known for his roles in iconic films including The French Connection, Hoosiers, and Superman. Arakawa, hailing from Hawaii, was an accomplished pianist who met Hackman in the mid-1980s while working at a fitness centre in California.