Gene Hackman’s surviving dogs in ‘limbo’ amid new heartache over couple’s wills

After their owners passed away, Gene Hackman and his wife’s surviving dogs are now in “limbo.”

Before the couple’s wills are read, Bear, a German Shepherd, and Nikita, a mix of Akita and Shepherd, can’t be rehomed. After being rescued from the couple’s home, they are currently boarding dogs at a facility in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

They will remain there indefinitely until it is revealed what arrangements Hackman, if any, made for the dogs after his passing. If any of Hackman’s family members will adopt the dogs, or if they will be relocated to a new home, it is still to be seen.

The dogs’ condition has been revealed in fresh heartbreaking details. The remains of a third “mummified” dog were discovered in a closet next to Betsy’s body, despite previous claims that the pair of dogs were “healthy.”

Zinna, an Australian Kelpie mixed-breed 12-year-old, was the dog’s that died, according to reports. The dogs, who had been abandoned for at least ten days, were discovered by police and called animal control.

According to USA Today, Nikita was “skittish because of all the commotion,” while Bear, who was easily found close to Betsy’s body, was easily captured.

The dog refused to cooperate when they tried to coax Nikita into Betsy’s car by opening and closing the door and also using treats. In the end, the backyard had to be a door trap for her overnight. After that, they were both boarding at a hotel. Since police are awaiting the results of the couple’s toxicology results, the investigation into their death has stalled.

Last Wednesday, Hackman and classical pianist Betsy, 65, were discovered dead in their Santa Fe, New Mexico, home. About nine days prior to the actor’s death, according to authorities, his body was likely to have been found.

Cops previously confirmed that February 17 was the last occurrence on Hackman’s pacemaker. Police have so far been unable to determine whether Hackman or his wife died first. Both were discovered to be “mummified.”

Cop and his ex-wife Faye Maltese’s children Christopher, 65, Elizabeth Jean, 63, and Leslie, 58, are attempting to piece together their last conversations, and they have compiled a list of contacts. The family is said to be eagerly awaiting toxicology test results.

The couple’s last photo was taken in March of 2024. The man could be seen clutching his wife’s arm and dragging a walking cane.

Source: Mirror