Authorities in New Mexico held a press conference on Friday to provide updates regarding the tragic deaths of renowned actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa.
The couple was found deceased in their home on February 26, with officials now offering further insight into the circumstances surrounding their passing.
According to Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza, it is believed that Hackman was alone with Arakawa’s body for approximately seven days before he passed away.
New Mexico Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Heather Jarrell confirmed that the 95-year-old actor’s cause of death was hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
Additionally, she noted that Hackman had been suffering from advanced Alzheimer’s disease, which may have contributed to his inability to recognize his wife’s passing.
Arakawa, a classical pianist, succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), a rare and potentially fatal illness transmitted by rodents.
Officials reported finding evidence of rodent infestation within the home, which may have led to her infection. Hackman, however, tested negative for hantavirus.
During the autopsy, medical examiners discovered that Hackman had not recently eaten, as no food was found in his stomach. While it was not explicitly stated whether he suffered a heart attack, Dr. Jarrell mentioned the likelihood of an abnormal heart rhythm playing a role in his death. Additionally, it was revealed that Hackman had been using a pacemaker, and his last recorded activity occurred on February 17, possibly indicating the day of his death.
The couple was discovered by two maintenance workers who had not seen them for two weeks. Concerned for their well-being, they initiated a welfare check that led to the grim discovery. Authorities found Hackman lying in a separate room near the kitchen, while Arakawa was located in a bathroom with signs of decomposition. Investigators also noted pills scattered across a countertop near her body.
Adding to the tragedy, one of the couple’s three dogs was also found dead, while the other two survived. Officials suspect that the deceased dog may have perished from starvation or dehydration, though necropsy results are still pending.
Authorities initially stated that foul play was not suspected but later classified the deaths as “suspicious” due to unusual circumstantial evidence, including an unlocked front door. Despite this, further investigation ruled out carbon monoxide poisoning as a cause, as both Hackman and Arakawa tested negative for exposure. Additionally, inspections conducted by a gas company and fire department found no leaks within the home.
Hackman and Arakawa had been living a quiet life in New Mexico, where they moved in 2004. Hackman, known for his prolific career in Hollywood, spent much of his later years painting and staying out of the public eye. Their last known public appearance was in March 2024, when they were photographed dining at a seafood restaurant in Albuquerque. During that outing, Hackman appeared frail, using a cane and leaning on his wife for support.
The actor’s career spanned decades, with iconic roles in films such as “Bonnie and Clyde,” which earned him an Oscar nomination, and “The French Connection,” which secured him an Academy Award for Best Actor. He also starred in classics such as “Superman” and “Heartbreakers.”
Hackman is survived by his three children from his first marriage: Elizabeth Jean Hackman, 62, Christopher Hackman, 65, and Leslie Hackman, 58. His death marks the end of an era for Hollywood, as he was widely regarded as one of the industry’s most talented and versatile actors.
The loss of Hackman and Arakawa has left many in shock, with fans and colleagues mourning the couple’s tragic end. Authorities continue to analyze the details surrounding their deaths, but at this time, no foul play is suspected.
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