Judge Allows Partial Release of Hackman Death Investigation Records

A New Mexico court has ruled that while police body camera footage and investigative records concerning the deaths of Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, can be released, any depictions of their bodies will remain sealed. Hackman, 95, and Arakawa, 64, were found deceased in their home on February 26, with Hackman reportedly succumbing to heart disease complicated by Alzheimer's, and Arakawa to a rare rodent-borne illness. The couple's estate attorney, Julia Peters, argued against the release of potentially distressing materials, emphasizing their desire for privacy even after death. Judge Matthew Wilson denied a broad injunction against releasing other media records, citing the necessity for public access to certain documents. The court had previously imposed a temporary restraining order to prevent the disclosure of sensitive images and reports while the estate's future management is under consideration. The couple's family is navigating probate proceedings, which may affect the release of further details regarding their estate.