Tragic Circumstances Surrounding Gene Hackman’s Passing
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — A deep tragedy has unfolded in Santa Fe, New Mexico, surrounding the deaths of renowned actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa. Forensic examinations have concluded that Hackman died from heart failure exacerbated by Alzheimer’s disease, shortly after the passing of Arakawa due to a rare rodent-borne illness.
Discovery of the Couple’s Remains
On February 26, maintenance workers discovered the mummified remains of Hackman, aged 95, and Arakawa, aged 65, in their home. This grim finding prompted immediate police involvement as the circumstances surrounding their deaths became clear.
Cause of Death
According to Dr. Heather Jarrell, the chief medical investigator, Hackman suffered from significant heart disease and advanced Alzheimer’s. He likely passed away a week after his wife, who is believed to have succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome on February 11. This rare but serious disease is caused by exposure to infected rodent droppings.
“It’s quite possible he was not aware she was deceased,” Dr. Jarrell noted, underlining the cognitive impairments associated with Hackman’s Alzheimer’s condition.
Timeline of Events
Arakawa’s last known public appearance was on February 11, when she completed errands, including shopping at a pharmacy and grocery store. Her subsequent silence raised concerns, culminating in the discovery of their remains weeks later.
Hackman’s pacemaker registered an abnormal heart rhythm on February 18, suggesting that he likely passed away shortly after the week his wife died.
Community Reaction
The revelation of their deaths has sent shockwaves through the Santa Fe community, known for its attractiveness to artists and celebrities. Stuart Ashman, a local gallery owner, expressed sorrow, stating, “All of us that knew him should have been checking on him. It’s just really sad.”
Investigation Updates
The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office, currently investigating the incident, noted that while both deaths have been classified as natural causes, they are awaiting the results of a necropsy on one of the couple’s dogs, which was also found deceased.
Hantavirus infections are more commonly reported in spring and summer, particularly in westward U.S. states. This case is the first confirmed instance of hantavirus in New Mexico for the year.
About Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa
Gene Hackman is celebrated for his significant contributions to cinema, winning two Academy Awards for roles in legendary films such as “The French Connection” and “Hoosiers.” He enjoyed a quiet retirement focusing on painting and writing.
Betsy Arakawa, originally from Hawaii and a skilled concert pianist, met Hackman in the mid-1980s. The couple shared a life away from the Hollywood spotlight, contributing to local community endeavors in Santa Fe.