In a heart-wrenching development, authorities have confirmed that Zinna, the beloved dog of the late actor Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa, likely died from dehydration and starvation. This revelation adds another layer of tragedy to the recent passing of the couple, whose deaths have left a void in both their community and the entertainment industry.
Discovery of Zinna
On February 26, 2025, the bodies of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa were discovered in their Santa Fe home. During the welfare check, authorities also found Zinna, a 12-year-old Australian Kelpie mix, deceased in a crate located in a bathroom closet near Arakawa’s body. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office reported that Zinna was partially mummified, indicating she had been dead for an extended period before being found.
Necropsy Findings
A necropsy conducted by the state Department of Agriculture’s veterinary laboratory revealed that Zinna likely succumbed to dehydration and starvation. The examination showed no signs of infectious disease, trauma, or poisoning. Zinna’s stomach was mostly empty, containing only small amounts of hair and bile, supporting the conclusion that lack of food and water led to her death.
Circumstances Leading to Zinna’s Death
Prior to her death, Zinna had undergone a medical procedure at Gruda Veterinary Hospital on February 9, 2025. Sheriff Adan Mendoza noted that this could explain why Zinna was confined to a crate upon returning home. Unfortunately, with the sudden illnesses and subsequent deaths of both Hackman and Arakawa, it appears that Zinna was inadvertently neglected, leading to her tragic demise.
Community Reaction
The Santa Fe community, already mourning the loss of Hackman and Arakawa, has expressed profound sadness over Zinna’s death. Joey Padilla, owner of the Santa Fe Tails pet care facility and a friend of the couple, remarked on the deep bond between Zinna and Arakawa, noting that the dogs were inseparable from their owners. Padilla’s sentiments reflect the collective grief felt by those who knew the family.
Moving Forward
As the investigation concludes, the focus shifts to honoring the memory of Gene Hackman, Betsy Arakawa, and their cherished dog, Zinna. The couple’s enduring love for each other and their pets serves as a poignant reminder of the deep connections that enrich our lives. The community continues to reflect on their legacy, finding solace in shared memories during this time of mourning.
