Santa Fe, New Mexico – The world was shocked when news broke that beloved actor Gene Hackman had passed away at the age of 95. But what was even more heartbreaking was the discovery that his wife, Betsy Arakawa, had also died just days before him. According to autopsy results released on Friday in New Mexico, Hackman’s death was caused by heart disease and other factors, while Arakawa’s was due to a rare virus spread by mice.
The couple, along with one of their dogs, were found dead on February 26th in their Santa Fe home. The tragic news was announced at a press conference at the Santa Fe sheriff’s office, where it was revealed that Arakawa’s death likely occurred a week before Hackman’s.
When asked if Hackman’s advanced Alzheimer’s had prevented him from realizing his wife’s passing, Sheriff Adan Mendoza replied, “I would assume that is the case.” Heather Jarrell, chief medical investigator at the New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator, also confirmed that Hackman was in an advanced state of Alzheimer’s and may not have been aware of Arakawa’s death.
The autopsy results showed that Arakawa’s death was caused by hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare disease in the U.S. that is mainly found in the western states of New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado, and Utah. In northern New Mexico, the virus is often spread through the droppings and urine of deer mice. It is typically transmitted through the air when people come into contact with contaminated areas, such as sheds or closets where mice have been living.
The symptoms of hantavirus start off similar to the flu, but can quickly progress to heart and lung failure, with a fatality rate of 38% to 50%. In recent years, New Mexico has experienced between one and seven cases annually, according to health data.
State health inspectors did not find any signs of rodents inside Hackman’s home, but did detect rodent activity in structures outside the house, according to State Veterinarian Erin Phipps. It is believed that Arakawa may have contracted the virus from one of these structures.
Hackman and Arakawa had been living in Santa Fe since the 1980s and were well-known figures in the city’s art community and culinary scene. However, in recent years they were seen less frequently in public as Hackman’s health began to deteriorate. The couple lived a very private life, as confirmed by Sheriff Mendoza.
Their deaths were discovered by a caretaker at their gated community, who then alerted the sheriff’s office. Hackman was found in the kitchen, while Arakawa and one of their dogs were found in a bathroom. Both had suddenly fallen to the floor and there were no signs of blunt force trauma.
It was also revealed that Arakawa had picked up one of their dogs from a veterinarian on February 9th, which may explain why the animal was found dead in a crate in their home on February 26th. Phipps stated that the dog may have died of starvation.
Hackman, a former Marine known for his iconic raspy voice, had a long and successful career in Hollywood spanning over 60 years. He appeared in more than 80 films, as well as on television and the stage. He received his first Oscar nomination for his role in “Bonnie and Clyde” in 1967 and went on to win two Oscars, one for best actor in 1972 for “The French Connection” and one for best supporting actor in 1993 for “Unforgiven.”
The news of Hackman’s passing has left fans and colleagues devastated, with many taking to social media to express their condolences and share fond memories of the legendary actor. He will always be remembered for his immense talent and contribution to the film industry.
In this time of sorrow, let us also remember Betsy Arakawa, a talented pianist and devoted wife who tragically passed away before her husband. May their souls rest in peace and their legacy continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved and admired them. Our thoughts and prayers go out to their family and friends during this difficult time.
