Gene Hackman’s Surviving Dogs Find New Homes Following Couple’s Death
Following the tragic deaths of legendary actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa-Hackman, their two surviving canine companions, Bear and Nikita, have been successfully rehomed, Fox News Digital has confirmed. The news brings a sense of closure to a heart-wrenching chapter for the Hackman family and their beloved pets.
Joey Padilla, the owner of Santa Fe Tails, a local animal welfare organization, expressed his relief and joy in securing loving homes for the dogs. "It is with great joy that, with the consent of the Estate Attorney, I and my staff at Santa Fe Tails have successfully found homes for the Hackmans surviving dogs, Bear and Nikita," Padilla stated to Fox News Digital.
Padilla emphasized the meticulous process involved in finding suitable homes for Bear and Nikita. "We went through stringent efforts to ensure the best homes were found, and the dogs have already begun settling into their new lives." The focus was on matching the dogs with families or individuals who could provide the care, attention, and affection they needed to thrive after experiencing such a profound loss.
The rehoming of Bear and Nikita marks a positive development amid the ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the Hackmans’ deaths. The couple was discovered at their Santa Fe home on February 26, along with the body of one of their other dogs, Zinna.
Padilla acknowledged the outpouring of support and concern for Bear and Nikita during this transition. "We are all thankful for the concern and well-wishes Bear and Nikita have received during their transition," he said. He also appealed to the public to respect the dogs’ privacy as they adjust to their new lives and continue to heal. "It is our hope that everyone continues to wish them the best and honor their privacy so they can continue to heal."
Bear and Nikita played a crucial role in the discovery of Gene and Betsy’s bodies. Upon arriving at the Hackman residence, Santa Fe Fire Chief Brian Moya explained that authorities quickly located Betsy in a bathroom. However, Gene Hackman remained missing despite an extensive search.
During the search, one of the couple’s dogs persistently approached the paramedics and officers from the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Department. Initially, authorities believed the dog was simply seeking attention. However, they soon realized the dog was attempting to lead them to Hackman. "They realized [the dog] was trying to say, ‘Hey, come over here! Come over here!’" Moya recounted to USA Today.
The discovery of the Hackmans’ bodies was a somber event, compounded by the presence of their deceased dog, Zinna. The Associated Press reported that Zinna likely died from dehydration and starvation. A report released by the Santa Fe County animal control agency indicated that the dog’s partial mummification could have obscured changes in organs, but there was no evidence of poisoning, infectious disease, or trauma that could have led to death. Furthermore, the report specified that Zinna’s stomach was empty, with only trace amounts of hair and bile discovered. Zinna’s body was found in a crate within a closet, approximately 10 to 15 feet away from where Betsy’s body was located in the bathroom.
The investigation into the Hackmans’ deaths has been ongoing, with new evidence emerging that has altered the timeline of events. Initially, authorities believed Betsy Hackman died on or around February 11. However, new information suggests her death may have occurred later. Betsy’s autopsy determined the manner of death as natural, and toxicology results are still pending.
According to the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office, the last known activity on Betsy Hackman’s cell phone was initially believed to be February 11, 2025. However, authorities have since confirmed that her phone was used on the morning of February 12 to call a medical center in Santa Fe, Cloudberry Health. "A total of three calls were made that morning, all to the medical center. One incoming call was made to Mrs. Hackman from the same medical center that afternoon," authorities added.
In a related development, the Hackman estate was granted a temporary restraining order against the release of records pertaining to the deaths of Gene and Betsy. The order prohibits the Office of the Medical Investigator and the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office from disclosing any photographs or videos containing images of the Hackmans’ bodies, the interior of their residence, or deceased animals found at the residence. The restraining order extends to any lapel video footage that may contain such images.
The successful rehoming of Bear and Nikita offers a glimmer of hope amidst the sadness and uncertainty surrounding the Hackmans’ deaths. The efforts of Santa Fe Tails and the outpouring of support from the community have ensured that these loyal companions will find loving homes where they can heal and begin new chapters in their lives. The investigation into the circumstances of Gene and Betsy Hackmans passing continues, with authorities working to uncover the truth and provide closure for their family and friends.
