Gene Hackman’s estate attempts to block public release of autopsy

14 Mar 2025 • 9:18 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Gene Hackman's estate is seeking to block the release of the autopsy and investigative reports related to his and wife Betsy Arakawa's deaths.
  • The estate argues that releasing the reports, which may include graphic photos and video, would violate the family's privacy.
  • The couple, known for their private lifestyle, were found dead in their Santa Fe home last month.
  • Hackman died of heart disease complicated by Alzheimer's, while Arakawa died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome.
  • While New Mexico law generally favours transparency, some information, like sensitive images and medical details, is exempt from public record.

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