Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa Pass Away One Week Apart

Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman, 95, passed away due to coronary artery disease linked to advanced Alzheimer’s, one week after his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 65, died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. Both were found at their Santa Fe home.

Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman has died at the age of 95, a week after his wife, Betsy Arakawa, who was 65, passed away from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), according to a medical investigator from New Mexico. Hackman succumbed to coronary artery disease exacerbated by advanced Alzheimer's disease, while Arakawa died from complications tied to a rare respiratory illness linked to exposure to infected rodent droppings.

Dr. Heather Jarrell of the New Mexico Medical Investigator's Office revealed that Arakawa likely died first on February 11, with Hackman following on February 18. The investigator confirmed that it is "reasonable to conclude" these dates based on the circumstances surrounding their deaths. Investigators noted that Arakawa's last known activity was a trip to the supermarket on February 11. Given that Hackman's Alzheimer's was in its advanced stages, it is possible he was unaware of his wife's passing.

Local health authorities clarified that hantavirus is transmitted via contact with infected rodent droppings or inhaled contaminated dust, and they emphasized the rarity of such infections, with only 136 cases reported in New Mexico over the past half-century. Evidence of rodent activity was detected on the property, but the risk within their home was deemed "low." Significantly, Hackman tested negative for hantavirus, prompting investigators to seek the source of Arakawa's infection.

The couple, married for over 30 years, was discovered in their home by neighborhood security personnel after a welfare check revealed their bodies. Hackman's body was located in a side room near the kitchen, while Arakawa was found in the bathroom. Nearby, authorities found medication for various health issues, yet details concerning prescriptions were not disclosed due to privacy laws. Additionally, one of their three dogs was found dead, while the other two were alive.

Investigators reported no signs of foul play or forced entry at their $3.8m home. Carbon monoxide tests returned negative, and no significant gas leaks were found. Gene Hackman leaves behind three adult children from a previous marriage. The actor's career included iconic roles, earning Academy Awards for "The French Connection" and "Unforgiven," as well as memorable performances alongside renowned actors throughout his career. He stepped back from the spotlight after his last role in "Welcome to Mooseport" in 2004 to enjoy a more private life in New Mexico.