**The couple's deaths shed light on the rare hantavirus and the health challenges faced by Hackman, a celebrated Hollywood veteran.**
**Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa Pass Away Just Days Apart in Natural Causes Tragedy**
**Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa Pass Away Just Days Apart in Natural Causes Tragedy**
**Iconic actor Gene Hackman dies at 95, a week after his wife Betsy Arakawa succumbs to a rare virus.**
Gene Hackman, the acclaimed 95-year-old actor, has passed away from natural causes just one week after the death of his wife, 65-year-old Betsy Arakawa. Reports indicate that Hackman's cause of death was coronary artery disease exacerbated by advanced Alzheimer's disease, while Arakawa succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), a rare respiratory illness transmitted from infected rodents.
The couple, who lived together in Santa Fe, New Mexico, were found deceased in their home after local neighborhood security initiated a welfare check. Medical authorities revealed that Betsy Arakawa likely died first on February 11, 2023, and Gene Hackman followed a week later on February 18, 2023. Dr. Heather Jarrell from the New Mexico Medical Investigator's Office stated that Hackman may not have been aware of his wife's passing due to his Alzheimer's condition.
Betsy was reportedly active on the day of her death, as she was seen visiting several local stores. Unfortunately, she became ill after contracting HPS, which is spread through contact with rodent droppings and secretions. The investigation indicated the presence of rodent activity in their home, while Hackman tested negative for the hantavirus.
A closer examination of the couple's living conditions revealed signs of advanced decomposition, with Hackman's body found in an adjacent room filled with personal items such as a walking cane and sunglasses. Arakawa was discovered in the bathroom, along with scattered medication. Investigators confirmed there were no indications of foul play, forced entry, or toxic gas exposure.
Gene Hackman enjoyed a prolific acting career, winning two Academy Awards for his performances in "The French Connection" and "Unforgiven." Despite his return to a quieter life in New Mexico, following landmark performances in Hollywood, his legacy remains enduring. Survived by three children from a previous marriage, his profound contributions to cinema are unquestionable.
Hackman and Arakawa's love story began in the mid-1980s, when they met during her part-time job at a gym in California. Their partnership spanned over three decades, culminating in this tragic ending that highlights significant health concerns surrounding viral infections and debilitating health conditions.
The couple, who lived together in Santa Fe, New Mexico, were found deceased in their home after local neighborhood security initiated a welfare check. Medical authorities revealed that Betsy Arakawa likely died first on February 11, 2023, and Gene Hackman followed a week later on February 18, 2023. Dr. Heather Jarrell from the New Mexico Medical Investigator's Office stated that Hackman may not have been aware of his wife's passing due to his Alzheimer's condition.
Betsy was reportedly active on the day of her death, as she was seen visiting several local stores. Unfortunately, she became ill after contracting HPS, which is spread through contact with rodent droppings and secretions. The investigation indicated the presence of rodent activity in their home, while Hackman tested negative for the hantavirus.
A closer examination of the couple's living conditions revealed signs of advanced decomposition, with Hackman's body found in an adjacent room filled with personal items such as a walking cane and sunglasses. Arakawa was discovered in the bathroom, along with scattered medication. Investigators confirmed there were no indications of foul play, forced entry, or toxic gas exposure.
Gene Hackman enjoyed a prolific acting career, winning two Academy Awards for his performances in "The French Connection" and "Unforgiven." Despite his return to a quieter life in New Mexico, following landmark performances in Hollywood, his legacy remains enduring. Survived by three children from a previous marriage, his profound contributions to cinema are unquestionable.
Hackman and Arakawa's love story began in the mid-1980s, when they met during her part-time job at a gym in California. Their partnership spanned over three decades, culminating in this tragic ending that highlights significant health concerns surrounding viral infections and debilitating health conditions.
