Gene Hackman's Death Follows Wife's by One Week, Medical Probe Finds

A medical investigation into the death of Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman has revealed that he likely passed away one week after hantavirus claimed the life of his wife, Betsy Arakawa, according to Variety. The investigation, which was initially deemed "suspicious" in a search warrant issued last month, was further clarified by New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator Chief Medical Examiner Heather Jarrell. Jarrell reported that Hackman, aged 95, succumbed to cardiovascular disease, with Alzheimer’s disease also contributing to his demise.

Betsy Arakawa, aged 65, is believed to have died on February 11, 15 days before the discovery of their bodies in their New Mexico home. The CDC describes hantavirus as a severe illness caused by a family of viruses primarily spread by rodents, such as mice and rats, which can lead to death.

Sheriff Adan Mendoza disclosed during a recent news conference that security camera footage showed Arakawa visiting a local Sprouts market and CVS on the day of her death. She had also spoken with a massage therapist that same day. Data from Hackman’s pacemaker indicated its last activity on February 17, suggesting he died one week after Arakawa. The couple, along with their deceased dog, were found in separate rooms without evidence of a gas leak, and subsequent autopsies confirmed negative results for carbon monoxide poisoning.

The news of Hackman and Arakawa's passing, which spread on February 27, sent shockwaves through the film community. Hackman, renowned for his roles in films like Superman, The French Connection, Unforgiven, and many others, won two Oscars during his illustrious career. He retired from acting in 2004, a decision influenced by his doctor's advice to avoid stress on his heart, as he told Empire.

For those interested in delving deeper into Hackman's cinematic contributions, you can explore our list of his 20 best films.