Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa: A Love Story Ended by Tragedy

Gene Hackman, beloved Oscar-winning actor, died from coronary artery disease at his Santa Fe home, a week after his wife Betsy Arakawa succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. Their deaths have raised concerns regarding rare illnesses and their intertwined lives.

Actor Gene Hackman, renowned for his remarkable contribution to cinema, has died at the age of 95 from natural causes in Santa Fe, New Mexico. His passing comes just a week after the death of his wife, Betsy Arakawa, who was 65. According to Dr. Heather Jarrell from the New Mexico Medical Investigator's Office, Hackman’s demise resulted from coronary artery disease, complicated by advanced Alzheimer's disease, a condition that reportedly clouded his daily functioning.

Betsy Arakawa's tragic death was attributed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, an uncommon respiratory illness typically contracted from exposure to infected rodent droppings. Dr. Jarrell indicated that Ms. Arakawa likely passed away about a week earlier, specifically on February 11, and that Hackman, possibly unaware of her death due to his Alzheimer's, died on February 18.

The couple, who cherished over three decades of marriage, were residing together in their home when the unfortunate events unfolded. Hackman was celebrated for his illustrious career, having won two Academy Awards for his performances in The French Connection and Unforgiven. Their lives took a contrasting turn, with Ms. Arakawa making her last public outing to a grocery store shortly before her passing.

New Mexico Public Health Veterinarian Erin Phipps clarified that although hantavirus infections are rare, there have been only 136 reported cases in the last 50 years in the state, and a significant 42% of those were fatal. Investigators continue to evaluate the circumstances surrounding Arakawa's infection.

On the day Hackman and Arakawa were found, neighborhood security conducted a welfare check that led to the grim discovery of their bodies at their residence. The investigation revealed no signs of foul play, and initial tests confirmed that Hackman was negative for hantavirus. The couple’s beloved dogs were also found in the home, with one deceased and the others unharmed.

Hackman's artistic journey began later in life, yet he captivated audiences with over 100 film roles, alongside collaborations with Hollywood legends. He withdrew from the film industry after a successful career culminating in his last role in Welcome to Mooseport in 2004. Hackman is survived by three adult children from a previous marriage, leaving behind a legacy both on screen and in his enduring love for Betsy.