Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa: Causes of Death Revealed
Days after the tragic discovery of actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, in their Santa Fe home, the causes of their deaths have been officially disclosed. A media briefing held on Friday provided critical insights into the circumstances surrounding their passing.
Causal Factors of Passing
Dr. Heather Jarrell, the chief medical examiner for New Mexico, announced that Gene Hackman, 95, died from hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiac disease, while Alzheimer’s disease was noted as a significant contributing factor. Betsy Arakawa, 65, succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome.
Understanding Hantavirus
Hantaviruses, which primarily reside in deer mice, have been linked to rare but severe human infections in New Mexico. Over the last 50 years, the state has recorded 136 cases, with a concerning 42% of these resulting in fatalities, according to Erin Phipps, New Mexico’s State Veterinarian.
Scene of Discovery
The couple was discovered on February 26, with Hackman’s body located on the floor of their home’s mudroom next to a walking cane and sunglasses. Arakawa was found on the bathroom floor near a space heater, and a dog was also found deceased nearby.
Investigation Insights
Authorities noted an open prescription bottle near Arakawa’s body, containing thyroid medication that was confirmed to have been taken as prescribed. Initial reports indicated a potential joint fall due to the positioning of items around their bodies. However, neither Hackman nor Arakawa exhibited signs of trauma, as mentioned in the medical examiner’s report.
Further analysis revealed signs of decomposition on both bodies, with Arakawa’s hands showing mummification. Evidence suggests that Arakawa likely passed away several days before her husband, with email correspondence and surveillance footage indicating her activity was last recorded on February 11.
Health Conditions
Hackman’s health was under scrutiny due to his extensive history of cardiac issues, including multiple heart procedures and prior heart attacks. An autopsy revealed “advanced” Alzheimer’s disease. Although no food was found in his stomach, indicating he had not eaten recently, he showed no signs of dehydration.
Unanswered Questions
Authorities speculated whether Hackman was even aware of Arakawa’s death, calling it a “difficult” question to answer but acknowledged the likelihood. Both Hackman and Arakawa were not discovered until well after their passing, raising concerns about the timeline of their deaths.
Dog’s Fate and Home Safety
The cause of death for their dog remains unclear, pending necropsy results. Notably, hantaviruses do not affect dogs, as explained by Phipps. Investigations into the couple’s home showed no signs of gas leaks or carbon monoxide poisoning that could have contributed to their deaths. The New Mexico Gas Company identified safety concerns but confirmed that none of these issues were linked to the couple’s fatalities.
A Life Remembered
Gene Hackman was celebrated as a renowned actor, winning two Oscars for his iconic roles in films like “The French Connection,” “Hoosiers,” and “Superman.” Betsy Arakawa had a rich background in music and met Hackman in the mid-1980s at a California gym. The couple enjoyed a quiet life post-Hollywood, focusing on art, writing, and community involvement in Santa Fe.
