Identified Causes of Death

According to Dr. Heather Jarrell, New Mexico’s chief medical investigator, Gene Hackman, aged 95, succumbed to heart disease, significantly compounded by Alzheimer’s disease. At a press briefing on March 7, Dr. Jarrell noted, “He had very extensive heart disease.”

In contrast, Betsy Arakawa, 65, passed away from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a serious respiratory condition linked to rodent exposure. Dr. Jarrell highlighted that while hantavirus infections are infrequent, the mortality rate in the Southwest can be alarmingly high, ranging from 38% to 50%.

Both individuals were tested for various ailments including carbon monoxide poisoning and common respiratory viruses such as COVID-19 and influenza, and results showed negative outcomes for all.

Timeline of Events

Determining the precise time of death is challenging. However, data from Hackman’s pacemaker indicated his last recorded heart activity was on February 18, suggesting his likely death occurred around that date. Further investigations revealed that Arakawa made several calls to a medical concierge service on February 12, leading authorities to reasonably conclude that she passed away shortly before her husband.

A search warrant executed on February 26 revealed noticeable signs of decomposition in both bodies, including facial bloating and mummification of extremities, which can occur under certain environmental conditions.

Discovery Circumstances

Authorities found the couple unresponsive at their residence located near Santa Fe. Hackman was discovered in the mudroom, seemingly having fallen suddenly, while Arakawa was located on the bathroom floor near the entry. Notably, medication found near Arakawa was determined not to be a contributing factor in her death.

The Fate of Their Dog

Also tragically affected was Zinna, one of their dogs, who was discovered deceased in a crate. Reports indicate that Zinna likely died from starvation and dehydration. Fortunately, two other dogs were found alive at the home when deputies arrived.

Understanding Hantavirus

The hantavirus is predominantly carried by rodents, with human infection arising from contact with contaminated excreta. While the couple’s home was described as well-maintained with a low exposure risk, there were signs of rodent entry in separate structures on their property.

Hantavirus symptoms resemble those of the flu and can deteriorate rapidly. Without medical intervention, the illness can become critical within 24 to 48 hours after symptom onset, as per Dr. Jarrell’s findings.

Investigative Findings

No indications of foul play or gas leaks were found at the residence, as confirmed by local fire department assessments. Minor gas leak issues noted at a stove were deemed non-lethal.

Legacy of Gene Hackman

Gene Hackman’s illustrious career, spanning several decades, included iconic roles in films such as “The French Connection” and “Unforgiven,” for which he received two Academy Awards. Since retiring from acting in 2004, he also authored numerous adventure and historical novels.

A moving tribute to Hackman was delivered during the Oscar ceremony on March 2, where actor Morgan Freeman honored him as a “generous performer” and a valued friend.

About Betsy Arakawa

Betsy Arakawa, a gifted concert pianist and co-founder of a home furnishings business, shared a rich life with Hackman. They met in the 1980s and became inseparable partners until their tragic end.

Surviving Family Members

Gene Hackman is survived by three children from his previous marriage, who expressed their profound loss in a heartfelt statement: “He was loved and admired by millions… but to us he was always just Dad and Grandpa. We will miss him sorely and are devastated by the loss.”