Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa were found deceased in separate rooms of their $3.8 million Santa Fe home, with authorities determining they died from different causes about a week apart in February.
Key Facts:
- Gene Hackman, 95, died from hypertensive cardiovascular disease complicated by Alzheimer’s, likely on February 18.
- His wife Betsy Arakawa, 65, died first on February 11 from Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome, a rare disease carried by rodents.
- Their mummified remains were discovered by maintenance workers in separate rooms of their Santa Fe home.
- Hackman was found with sunglasses and a cane nearby, suggesting he may have fallen.
- Medical investigators found no signs of carbon monoxide poisoning, contrary to earlier family theories.
The Rest of The Story:
New Mexico’s chief medical investigator, Dr. Heather Jarrell, confirmed that autopsies were performed on the couple last Thursday.
Hackman’s autopsy revealed severe heart disease and evidence of prior heart attacks, with no signs of trauma.
Arakawa was found in the bathroom with a space heater nearby and prescription medications scattered across a counter.
Officials believe Hackman, suffering from advanced Alzheimer’s, likely didn’t realize his wife had died.
The Oscar-winning actor was discovered in a mud room off the kitchen, while Arakawa was found lying on her side in the bathroom.
The timeline suggests she died first from hantavirus, which initially presents with flu-like symptoms, and he passed away about a week later.
— CBS News (@CBSNews) March 7, 2025
Commentary:
This heartbreaking discovery highlights the vulnerability of elderly couples, especially when one partner is suffering from a degenerative condition like Alzheimer’s.
The separation of the bodies in different rooms paints a particularly devastating picture of their final days.
With Hackman’s cognitive decline from Alzheimer’s, the couple was essentially without adequate support or supervision despite their considerable resources.
For families with aging loved ones, this situation serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of regular check-ins.
Even wealthy and famous individuals can find themselves in dangerous situations when isolated from regular care and attention.
The presence of hantavirus, a disease carried by rodents, raises additional concerns about the living conditions that may have developed unnoticed in the home.
Our hearts go out to the family members who must now process not only the loss of their loved ones but also the circumstances surrounding their passing.
For the children Hackman shared with his first wife, this must be an especially difficult time as they reconcile the final chapter of their father’s otherwise remarkable life.
The Bottom Line:
The deaths of Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa represent a tragic end to a legendary actor’s life and his decades-long marriage.
Their passing went undiscovered for an extended period, highlighting the vulnerabilities that can affect even the most accomplished individuals in their later years.
Read Next
– Fact Casual Restaurant Chain With 110 Locations Across 26 States Files For Bankruptcy
– Layoffs of US Workers Surged to Recession Levels in February, Led By a Single Sector
– Former Top Aide to Kamala Harris Under Criminal Investigation For Allegedly Facilitating Fraud