Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman passed away from natural causes at 95. He died at his home in Santa Fe, New Mexico, just a week after his wife, Betsy Arakawa, who was 65, died from a rare virus called hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. Medical investigators noted that Hackman’s death resulted from coronary artery disease and advanced Alzheimer’s disease.
Authorities believe Betsy likely died on February 11, followed by Hackman on February 18. Dr. Heather Jarrell, a New Mexico medical investigator, shared this information during a recent news conference. She explained that it’s possible Hackman was unaware of his wife’s passing due to his advanced Alzheimer’s condition.
Betsy was last seen on February 11 when she ran errands, visiting a grocery store and a pharmacy before returning home. Investigators indicated that 136 cases of hantavirus had been reported across New Mexico in the past 50 years, with 42% resulting in death. Hantavirus is spread through contact with the droppings, urine, or saliva of infected rodents.
The couple was discovered in their home after security staff performed a welfare check. Investigators found their bodies in a deteriorated state. Hackman was located in a side room near the kitchen, while Betsy was in the bathroom. Close to her body were scattered pills, including medications for thyroid and blood pressure.
Authorities also noted the presence of one deceased dog near Betsy, while the other two dogs were alive. Thankfully, dogs do not contract hantavirus. There were no signs of forced entry or foul play at their home, and tests ruled out carbon monoxide poisoning.
Gene Hackman is renowned for his remarkable acting career. He won two Academy Awards: one for his role in “The French Connection” and another for “Unforgiven”. His breakthrough came in his thirties, and he played numerous memorable roles, including Lex Luthor in the original “Superman” films. After his last film appearance in 2004, he chose to live a more private life in New Mexico. He leaves behind three adult children from a previous marriage.
