New Mexico health officials uncover rodent presence in buildings where Gene Hackman’s wife Betsy Arakawa died from a virus connected to contaminated environments.
Investigators Find Rodent Infestation at Home of Gene Hackman and Late Wife
Investigators Find Rodent Infestation at Home of Gene Hackman and Late Wife
Nests and deceased rodents located near couple's residence linked to hantavirus outbreak
Nests and dead rodents have been discovered in the outbuildings of the New Mexico home owned by Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman and his late wife, Betsy Arakawa. This revelation comes in light of health investigations following Ms. Arakawa's death, which has been linked to a respiratory illness caused by hantavirus, a disease transmitted via infected rodents.
Documents from the New Mexico Department of Public Health obtained by BBC News show evidence of rodent activity across eight detached structures on the property. Betsy Arakawa, aged 65, is believed to have succumbed to the illness on February 12, while Gene Hackman, 95, who was suffering from advanced Alzheimer's disease, reportedly passed away a week later, with both found deceased in their home on February 26.
An environmental evaluation completed shortly after their discovery showed alarming levels of rodent-related contamination. The assessment, conducted on March 5, found rodent feces, a live rodent, and a nest within three garages, along with additional droppings in two separate smaller buildings and three storage sheds. Additionally, traps had been placed in these areas, indicating efforts to manage the infestation.
Rodent signs were also noted in two abandoned vehicles on the premises. Despite this troubling finding, officials confirmed that the main residence appeared free of rodent signs or infestations. A report from New Mexico health authorities stated the main house is "clean with no signs of rodent activity."
Health officials have linked Ms. Arakawa’s death to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS). This severe lung condition manifests through symptoms such as fatigue, fever, muscle soreness, dizziness, and abdominal pain, leading to abrupt fatalities. The transmission occurs when a person inhales dust particles from contaminated urine, droppings, or saliva from infected rodents.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has documented that between 1993 and 2022, there were 864 reported cases of hantavirus in the United States, predominantly concentrated in rural western states, with a mortality rate close to 38% when respiratory symptoms are present. Gene Hackman's cause of death has been noted as severe heart disease with advanced Alzheimer's contributing, raising concerns that his cognitive condition may have left him unaware of his wife’s passing in their shared home.
As the investigation continues, the circumstances surrounding the couple's tragic end reveal an underreported public health concern tied to hantavirus exposure and rodent control in residences.
