A medical investigation into the tragic passing of Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman has revealed that he likely died one week after hantavirus claimed the life of his wife, Betsy Arakawa, as reported by Variety. The New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator's Chief Medical Examiner, Heather Jarrell, has confirmed that Hackman, aged 95, succumbed to cardiovascular disease, with Alzheimer’s also contributing to his death.
The investigation into the couple's deaths, previously deemed “suspicious” in a late-month search warrant, has shed light on the timeline of their final days. Arakawa, aged 65, passed away on February 11, 15 days before their bodies were discovered in their New Mexico home. According to the CDC, hantavirus is a serious illness primarily spread by rodents such as mice and rats, which can lead to death.
Sheriff Adan Mendoza provided further details in a recent news conference, noting that security camera footage showed Arakawa visiting a local Sprouts market and CVS on the day of her death. She also had a conversation with a massage therapist that same day. Hackman's pacemaker recorded its last event on February 17, indicating he died one week after Arakawa. The couple, along with their deceased dog, were found in separate rooms of their home, with no evidence of a gas leak. Subsequent autopsies confirmed negative results for carbon monoxide.
The film community was deeply saddened by the news of Hackman and Arakawa's deaths, which spread on February 27. Hackman, renowned for his roles in films like Superman, The French Connection, Unforgiven, and many others, won two Oscars during his illustrious career. He retired from acting in 2004, a decision influenced by his doctor's advice to avoid putting too much stress on his heart, as he told Empire.
For those interested in exploring more of Hackman's cinematic legacy, you can refer to our list of his 20 best films.
