Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife Betsy Arakawa, 63, had no signs of “an external trauma”, early autopsy reports following their deaths on Thursday (28th February) have shown.

The couple were found dead in their Santa Fe, New Mexico, home during a welfare check after concerned neighbours and a maintenance worker were unable to reach them.

They were found in separate rooms, along with their beloved German Shepherd.

Betsy was found in the bathroom on the floor alongside a tipped-over bottle of prescription pills spread over the countertop and a nearby space heater, leading investigators to wonder if she had toppled over.

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and third parties based on our knowledge of you. More info

It is unknown what these pills were or whether they were for Betsy or Gene.

She was found in a state of decomposition, with facial bloating and mummification of her hands and feet.

Gene was discovered in a mud room next to the kitchen and was also in a similar condition.

Following their discovery by police, there was a desperate wait for the autopsy report to finally shed some light over these mysterious circumstances – an early autopsy report has finally been released.

It reads: “The deceased male who was found wearing gray sweat pants, a blue in colour long-sleeve t-shirt, brown slippers, and walking-cane. Deputy Thomas indicated he observed a pair of sunglasses located near the decedent’s left of his body. Based on Deputy Thomas’ training and experience he suspected the male individual has suddenly fallen. Deputy Thomas advised the male decedent also showed obvious signs of death, similar and consistent with the female decedent.”

At present, police are labelling their deaths “suspicious” as the door to their home was found ajar, yet there were no signs of a forced entry, according to an affidavit.