Man who discovered bodies of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa makes heartbreaking admission

The individual who called 911 to alert the authorities of the deaths of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa has made a heartbreaking admission.

Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa were found dead on Wednesday. Credit: Kevin Winter/Getty Images.

As authorities continue to investigate the sudden and mysterious deaths of the Hollywood legend, 95, and his wife, 63, new details have emerged — including insights from the man who discovered their bodies and placed the frantic 911 call.

A Devastating Discovery

On February 26, Jesse Kesler, a longtime friend and personal contractor of Hackman and Arakawa, arrived at their Santa Fe, New Mexico home and made the chilling discovery. He immediately called 911, his voice filled with panic.

"Please send somebody really quick," he pleaded in the call, which was later obtained by Fox News. "I found two or one deceased person[s] inside a house."

Throughout the call, Kesler can be heard crying, his voice breaking as he says “damn” repeatedly. He explained to the dispatcher that the house was locked, and he could see Arakawa lying on the floor through a window.

The couple was discovered by a friend and maintenance worker. Credit: Ron Galella / Getty

"No, dude, they’re not moving! Just send somebody out here really quick!" he urged, his distress unmistakable.

Despite witnessing the gruesome scene firsthand, Kesler has since refused to publicly discuss what he saw, citing the privacy of the couple.

Kesler told Fox News that he has been left "heartbroken" by the couple's deaths, and added that he will "never" comment on the "tragic event".

However, in the days following their deaths, he issued an emotional public statement, choosing to honor their memory.

Jesse Kesler’s Heartfelt Tribute

Kesler, the owner of MudCity Builders in Santa Fe, had worked closely with Hackman and Arakawa for over 16 years, not only as their contractor but as a trusted friend.

His full statement read: "Gene and Betsy, thank you for the 16-plus years of opportunity, friendship, and trust."

He went on to personally thank Hackman, acknowledging the surreal experience of working alongside the Oscar-winning legend.

"Gene Hackman, thank you for lending a hand on projects over the years. I could not believe at the time I was actually working side by side with a legend. Thank you for treating my sons and employees so well and as equals. When on the job, you were just another one of the guys. Thank you for all the stories, which I will always remember and cherish forever."

Kesley has shared a heartfelt tribute to Hackman and Arakawa. Credit: Donaldson Collection / Getty

He also paid tribute to Arakawa, remembering her kindness and generosity:

"Betsy Hackman, thank you for the years of friendship, generosity, opportunity, and trust. Thank you for your love for dogs, including my own. Thank you for all the advice and consoling. Thank you for being such a beautiful person."

Kesler concluded his statement with a simple but heart-wrenching farewell:

"You both will always be near and dear to my heart and greatly missed. Love you both!"

What We Know About the Investigation

Authorities believe that Hackman and Arakawa had been dead for over a week before Kesler found them.

One of the most significant pieces of evidence is Hackman’s pacemaker data, which shows its last recorded event on February 17 — nine days before the discovery.

Sheriff Adan Mendoza stated: "According to the pathologist, I think that is a very good assumption—that was his last day of life."

However, investigators have not yet determined whether Arakawa died on the same day or later.

The Scene: What Authorities Found

• Hackman’s body was found in the mudroom, near a pair of sunglasses.
• Arakawa’s body was found in the bathroom, lying on her side near a space heater, with an open orange pill bottle and scattered pills nearby.
• One of their three German Shepherds was also found dead inside a crate about 10–15 feet from Arakawa.
• The two other dogs survived, likely because they had access to a doggy door.
• Authorities confirmed no external trauma, no forced entry, and no signs of a struggle.

No Carbon Monoxide, No Signs of Foul Play—But Questions Remain

Initial concerns about carbon monoxide poisoning were ruled out after thorough testing by the Santa Fe City Fire Department and the New Mexico Gas Company.

Despite the lack of obvious foul play, authorities launched a criminal investigation due to the unusual circumstances of their deaths. The cause remains undetermined pending autopsy and toxicology results, which could take months.

Sheriff Mendoza noted that investigators have seized:

• Two green cellphones
• A 2025 monthly planner
• Medical records from Quest Diagnostics
• Three types of medication (Tylenol, thyroid medication, and Diltiazem, a blood pressure drug)

A Hollywood Legend Remembered

Gene Hackman was one of the most respected actors of his time, with a career spanning over 80 films.

His Academy Award wins included Best Actor for The French Connection (1971) and Best Supporting Actor for Unforgiven (1992).

Additionally, some of Hackman's most iconic films include: Bonnie and Clyde (1967), Superman (1978), The Conversation (1974), The Poseidon Adventure (1972), and Crimson Tide (1995).

Gene Hackman was a true Hollywood legend. Credit: Jeff Kravitz / Getty

Hackman retired from acting in 2004 after doctors warned him that the stress could impact his heart. He then turned to writing, publishing several historical fiction and crime thriller novels.

The Investigation Continues

With autopsy and toxicology results pending, the mystery surrounding Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa’s deaths remains unsolved.

As authorities work to uncover what truly happened, one thing is certain — Hollywood has lost a legend, and those who knew him best, like Jesse Kesler, have lost dear friends.

Our thoughts go out to every person impacted by this loss.

Featured image credit: Steve Granitz / Getty