Gene Hackman’s family release heartbreaking statement as police investigate ‘suspicious’ deaths

The Oscar-winning actor was found dead alongside his wife and dog

Hackman, 95, was discovered alongside his wife Betsy Arakawa, 63, by police on Wednesday.

Police initially ruled that there was no foul play in their deaths, but they have now said their deaths are "suspicious enough" to merit an investigation.

Hackman's body was discovered in a mudroom, while Arakawa's body was found in a bathroom. One of their pet dogs was also found dead at the scene.

Now, Hackman's family has released a heartbreaking statement following the Hollywood icon's death.

His daughters Elizabeth and Leslie, as well as his granddaughter, Annie, shared the statement with the New York Post.

It read: "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy.

"He was loved and admired by millions around the world for his brilliant acting career, but to us he was always just Dad and Grandpa.

“We will miss him sorely and are devastated by the loss."

Police have said they believed the couple had been dead for “some time” due to the “mummification” of parts of Ms Arakawa’s body. Mr Hackman’s body also showed “obvious signs of death, similar and consistent with the female decedent,” said an official document.

A portable heater was found on the bathroom floor next to Ms Arakawa’s body, which a detective has theorised could have been brought down when she fell to the ground.

The deceased dog’s body was found locked in a cupboard near to Ms Arakawa.

Two other dogs were found healthy and alive at the scene, one inside and one outside the house.

The last time Hackman was seen in front of the camera for an acting role was in the 2004 comedy Welcome To Mooseport.

He filmed alongside Ray Romano and Christine Baranski for the flick, and said at the time that he had no other films scheduled and no plans to line any work up.

His confirmed his retirement in 2008 during the promotion of his third novel Escape From Andersonville. It brought an end to his career which spanned over six decades, beginning in 1956 when he joined the Pasadena Playhouse and befriended Dustin Hoffman.

Hackman has over 100 film credits to his name including blockbuster hits such as Enemy of the State, Crimson Tide, No Way Out and The French Connection.