The mystery surrounding Gene Hackman’s death has been resolved, with the New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator confirming that his wife, Betsy Arakawa, died first before Hackman passed away days later, likely unaware of her death due to Alzheimer’s disease.
The couple, along with their dog, were found dead in their Santa Fe, New Mexico, home on February 26. However, new findings indicate that Hackman may have died days before authorities discovered them.
What Caused Their Deaths?
- Betsy Arakawa succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare and often fatal disease contracted from rodents’ urine, droppings, or saliva.
- Gene Hackman, 94, died of natural causes, with the report citing heart disease and complications from Alzheimer’s.
- Hackman’s pacemaker last showed activity on February 18, suggesting he likely died that day, unaware that his wife had already passed.
Arakawa’s Final Days
Before her passing, Arakawa appeared to be active, running errands just days before all communication from the couple ceased.
- Feb. 9: Picked up their dog, Zinna, from a veterinary hospital.
- Feb. 11: Had an email exchange with a massage therapist, visited Sprouts Farmers Market, CVS, and a pet store before returning home around 5:15 p.m.
- Feb. 11 (afternoon): Arakawa’s emails remained unopened, the last known sign of life from either her or Hackman.
The medical examiner’s report suggests that Hackman was unaware of Arakawa’s death due to his Alzheimer’s. Investigators found no further communication from either of them after February 11, meaning the couple may have died alone, within days of each other.
