Legendary actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa Hackman, 

tragically passed away in their Santa Fe home, with authorities confirming their causes of death on Friday, March 7. 

The heartbreaking details reveal that Betsy, 65, succumbed to hantavirus, a rare but deadly virus linked to rodent droppings, 

while Hackman, 95, passed away days later due to complications from severe heart disease, high blood pressure, and advanced Alzheimer’s disease.

According to New Mexico’s chief medical examiner, Heather Jarrell, Betsy suffered from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, 

which is transmitted to humans through contact with rodent urine, saliva, or droppings. 

Her last known communication was an email sent on February 11. Authorities believe that Gene was alone in their residence with his deceased wife for several days before passing away himself. His pacemaker recorded its last activity on February 17, and it is estimated that he died the following day. When found, his stomach was empty, indicating he had not eaten before his passing, though he did not show signs of dehydration.

The couple was discovered in their home on February 26, following concerns raised by a pest control worker. After receiving no response from the Hackmans, the worker alerted a neighborhood security officer, who then called 911 upon spotting their bodies through a window. Authorities arrived to find Gene in the mudroom and Betsy collapsed in a bathroom near a space heater and scattered pills. The tragic scene also included their dog, Zinna, found deceased in a crate inside a closet, while two other dogs on the property were discovered alive. A necropsy is being conducted to determine the cause of the dog’s death.

Investigators initially examined the possibility of carbon monoxide or gas poisoning after detecting a small gas leak on a stovetop. However, those factors were ruled out as causes of death. While authorities do not suspect foul play, Erin Phipps, a veterinarian with the New Mexico Health Department, noted that signs of rodent entry were detected in outlying structures on the property. The main house, however, was assessed as having a low risk of exposure.

Hantavirus cases are rare but pose a significant threat, with fatality rates reaching up to 42% in New Mexico. Over the past five years, the state has reported fewer than 10 cases. The virus primarily spreads through inhalation of airborne particles contaminated by rodent droppings.

Gene Hackman was regarded as one of the most accomplished actors of his generation, earning two Academy Awards during his illustrious career. His first Oscar win came in 1971 for his role in The French Connection, followed by another in 1992 for Unforgiven. After decades in Hollywood, Hackman retired from acting in 2004, choosing to live a quieter life in Santa Fe with his wife, Betsy, a talented concert pianist.

The couple’s passing marks the end of an era for fans and loved ones who admired their devotion to one another. Gene and Betsy had built a life together in their peaceful New Mexico home, away from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. Their deaths serve as a somber reminder of the dangers posed by hantavirus and the silent toll of age-related illnesses.

As authorities conclude their investigation, those closest to the couple are left mourning the loss of a Hollywood legend and his beloved wife. Their legacy—both on and off the screen—will live on in the hearts of many who were touched by their lives and careers.

Follow us to see more useful information, as well as to give us more motivation to update more useful information for you.