Gene Hackman, the legendary actor, passed away due to heart disease shortly after his wife, Betsy Arakawa, died from a virus connected to rodents. They both were found at their New Mexico home on February 26. The couple had been known for their reclusive lifestyle, and their deaths brought both sadness and many questions.
Betsy, 65, had last been seen on February 11, when she ran some errands. After that date, there was no sign of activity from her. Gene, who was 95 and suffering from advanced Alzheimer’s disease, likely passed away about a week later, on February 18, according to Dr. Heather Jarrell, the chief medical examiner in New Mexico.
Gene was discovered on the floor of their mudroom, next to his cane, while Betsy was found on the bathroom floor. Investigators noted that there were common medications nearby, but these were ruled out as causes of her death. They were not found until a maintenance worker noticed something was wrong when no one answered the door and called for help.
Dr. Jarrell mentioned that due to Gene’s Alzheimer’s, it was possible he didn’t know Betsy had died. It was unclear if he was able to care for himself without assistance. The autopsy revealed that Gene’s stomach was empty, indicating he hadn’t eaten for some time. However, he did not seem dehydrated. Sheriff Adan Mendoza reported that there was no evidence showing Gene had communicated with anyone after his wife’s passing.
This tragic situation highlights not only the personal struggles faced by the couple but also raises important discussions around health, loneliness, and the impacts of advanced illness. It reminds us to cherish our loved ones and stay aware of each other’s well-being.
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Source linkHackman, Gene,Arakawa, Betsy (1959-2025),Santa Fe (NM)
