A medical investigation into the tragic deaths of Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, has shed light on the circumstances surrounding their passing. According to a report from the New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator, Hackman, aged 95, succumbed to cardiovascular disease, with Alzheimer’s also contributing to his death. The investigation, which was initially deemed "suspicious" in a search warrant, has now provided clarity on the cause of the couple's demise.
Betsy Arakawa, aged 65, is believed to have died on February 11 from hantavirus, a severe illness caused by a family of viruses primarily spread by rodents, as described by the CDC. Her death occurred 15 days before the couple's bodies were discovered in their New Mexico home. Security camera footage revealed that Arakawa had visited a local Sprouts market and CVS on the day of her death and had also spoken with a massage therapist.
Gene Hackman's pacemaker recorded its final event on February 17, indicating that he likely passed away one week after his wife. The couple, along with one deceased dog, were found in separate rooms of their home, with no evidence of a gas leak. Subsequent autopsies confirmed negative tests for carbon monoxide.
The news of Hackman and Arakawa's passing sent shockwaves through the film community when it was reported on February 27. Hackman, renowned for his roles in films such as "Superman," "The French Connection," and "Unforgiven," won two Oscars during his illustrious career. He retired from acting in 2004, following his doctor's advice to avoid putting too much stress on his heart, as he revealed in an interview with Empire.
For those interested in exploring more of Hackman's cinematic contributions, you can refer to our curated list of his 20 best films.
