Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were found dead in their New Mexico home on February 26. This tragic news follows the death of Arakawa just a week earlier, which was attributed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare infectious disease. The couple’s deaths have been confirmed as resulting from natural causes, with no signs of foul play.
Dr. Heather Jarrell, the chief medical investigator for New Mexico, provided updates on the couple’s deaths. She reported that Betsy likely passed away on February 11, the last day she communicated with anyone via email. Hantavirus can be contracted from breathing in contaminated air, and symptoms can appear as soon as one week after exposure.
Gene Hackman, who was 93, suffered from advanced Alzheimer’s disease and died from heart disease. His pacemaker data indicated that he likely passed away on February 17. Due to his condition, it is possible he was unaware of his wife’s passing.
Authorities confirmed that Hackman tested negative for hantavirus, which is spread through infected rodent droppings. The couple’s dog was also found deceased at their home, although the cause of its death has not been established. Arakawa had picked the dog up from the vet on February 9, where it had undergone a procedure.
The couple lived a private life, and police are still waiting for data from their mobile phones, though it’s unlikely to reveal more information. Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza stated there is no indication that Hackman used any technology to communicate.
Hackman was a highly respected actor, known for his roles in films like "The French Connection," for which he won an Academy Award for Best Actor, and "Unforgiven," for which he received a Best Supporting Actor Oscar. He met Betsy Arakawa in the mid-1980s, and they married in 1991.
The news of their deaths has touched many, with tributes pouring in. At the recent Academy Awards, Morgan Freeman honored Hackman, calling him a giant and a dear friend. This loss marks the end of an era for one of Hollywood’s greatest actors and a beloved couple.