Judge Is Weighing Big Decision In Gene Hackman's Death

A judge is weighing a big decision on the death of Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa.

Hackman, the legendary Hollywood star known for his roles in movies like "Hoosiers," "Unforgiven" and "Enemy of the State," was found dead at his Santa Fe, New Mexico home earlier this year. His wife, Betsy Arakawa, was also found dead inside of the home. One of the couple's dogs was also reportedly found deceased.

Investigators have ruled that Hackman passed away from heart problems, along with complications from Alzheimer's, while Arakawa died from a rare illness spread from rodents.

Now, more than a month following their deaths, a New Mexico court is weighing a big decision. The judge is weighing whether to block the disclosure of an array of records from an investigation into their deaths.

Santa Fe-based Judge Matthew Wilson is weighing the decision on Monday. He is set to have a meeting with the estate attorney on Monday. Judge Wilson will be meeting with estate representative Julia Peters to decide on whether or not to seal photos, video and documents to protect the family’s constitutional right to privacy.

The court had initially put a temporary hold on the release of the photos, videos and documents. 

New Mexico is a state that blocks the release of sensitive images, including depictions of dead bodies, from open records requests. Hackman and Arakawa were both found in bad fashion, having reportedly been dead for days.

The media is attempting to bid for the release of the photos, videos and documents, as they believe it is public record, given their fame. 

Meanwhile, the Hackman family is also trying to block the autopsy reports by the Office of the Medical Investigator and death investigation reports by the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office from being released.

There is also an ongoing dispute between the family regarding Hackman's assets.