Tragic Discovery: Rodent Nests Linked to Gene Hackman's Wife's Hantavirus Death

Environmental assessment sheds light on hantavirus transmission and health risks at the property.

Authorities have uncovered alarming evidence at the residence of legendary actor Gene Hackman and his late wife, Betsy Arakawa, where rodent nests were found in the outbuildings. The New Mexico Department of Public Health disclosed records indicating the presence of rodents across eight separated buildings at their Santa Fe home, where Arakawa, 65, tragically passed away due to a respiratory illness associated with hantavirus.

Investigators believe Arakawa died approximately a week before Hackman, 95, who was suffering from severe Alzheimer's disease. Their bodies were discovered by authorities in February. Following their deaths, an environmental assessment revealed significant rodent infestations. The inspection found droppings, a live rodent, and a dead rodent in three garages, as well as more rodent activity in external structures and machinery on the property.

Public health officials stated that while the main house showed no signs of rodents, the extensive presence of rodent feces and nests nearby raised concerns. Hantavirus can be deadly, being transmitted through inhalation of particles from an infected rodent's bodily fluids. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that during the period from 1993 to 2022, there were 864 cases of hantavirus in the United States.

Medical investigations concluded Arakawa's sudden demise was due to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), a severe lung condition with symptoms including fever and muscle aches. Meanwhile, Gene Hackman's passing was attributed to severe heart disease, compounded by his Alzheimer's, which may have prevented him from fully grasping the situation surrounding his wife’s death.

The discovery has prompted deeper discussions on the dangers of hantavirus and the risks associated with rodent infestations in home environments, underscoring the need for heightened awareness and preventative measures.