Gene Hackman and Wife Died of Natural Causes, Officials Confirm
The recent deaths of legendary actor Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife Betsy Arakawa, 65, at their Santa Fe, New Mexico home have been attributed to natural causes, officials announced Friday. The couple was discovered on February 26, prompting an investigation that has now revealed the circumstances surrounding their passing.
Hantavirus Claimed Arakawa's Life
Dr. Heather Jarrell, Chief Medical Examiner at the Office of the Medical Investigator, stated that Betsy Arakawa's death was caused by hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare infectious disease transmitted by infected rodent droppings. Dr. Jarrell indicated that Arakawa likely died around February 11, based on when she was last seen leaving the house. There were no signs of trauma, confirming the natural cause of death.
Hackman's Alzheimer's and Heart Disease
Gene Hackman's death was attributed to advanced Alzheimer's disease and significant cardiovascular disease. Information retrieved from his pacemaker suggested he may have died around February 18. Due to the advanced state of his Alzheimer's, it is possible Hackman was unaware of his wife's death. While investigators could not definitively confirm if Hackman died of a heart attack, they noted his late-stage cardiovascular disease as a significant factor.
Timeline of Events and Discovery
The couple's bodies were discovered by a neighborhood security employee after family members had not heard from them for some time. Preliminary autopsy results indicated they had been deceased for approximately nine days. Initial investigations ruled out carbon monoxide poisoning and foul play. The timeline suggests Arakawa passed away first, followed by Hackman about a week later.
Dog's Death and Lingering Questions
Adding a layer of complexity to the situation was the death of one of the couple's dogs, Zinna, a 12-year-old mixed-breed Kelpie, which was found near Arakawa's body. Zinna's death is believed to be due to lack of food or water. The couple's other dogs, Bear and Nikita, were found alive on the property. Authorities confirmed that the dog could not have contracted the hantavirus.
A "Broken Heart-Type Thing?"
While not involved in the official investigation, James Gill, Chief Medical Examiner with the Connecticut Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, offered a theory based on the circumstances. He suggested the possibility of a "broken heart-type thing," where the stress of one spouse's death could trigger a natural death in the other, especially given Hackman's pre-existing heart condition. However, the official cause of death for both individuals has been determined through the medical examiner's investigation.
The deaths of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa mark the end of a long chapter in Hollywood history. Hackman, a five-time Oscar nominee and two-time winner, was celebrated as one of the greatest actors of his generation. The details surrounding their passing, while initially mysterious, have now been clarified, bringing closure to family, friends, and fans alike.
