TEMPORARY HOLD

Judge Rules on Release of Photos and Videos in Gene Hackman Case

A New Mexico judge granted a temporary restraining order sought by a representative of the actor’s estate.

A New Mexico judge issued a temporary restraining order barring the release of photos, videos, and other records on the death of actor Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa, according to The Associated Press. Julia Peters, a representative for the couple’s estate, urged the court in a motion filed last week to seal the records. “A preliminary injunction is necessary to protect the estates of Mr. Hackman and Ms. Arakawa-Hackman’s right to privacy,” the filing read. “The Hackmans led an exemplary private life for more than 30 years in Santa Fe, New Mexico and did not showcase their lifestyle.” The photos and videos on the case were possibly shocking in nature and could get disseminated by the media, Peters argued further. The order also prevents the disclosure of autopsy reports or death investigation reports related to Hackman, 95, and Arakawa, 65. The couple was found dead in their New Mexico mansion last month. Arakawa died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a respiratory illness transmitted from rodents to humans. Authorities believe Hackman died from heart disease after his pacemaker stopped working, with his Alzheimer’s playing a “significant” factor.