Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife Betsy Arakawa, 65, passed away in their Santa Fe home, raising health concerns and memories of their long-lasting bond.
**Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa Pass Away Just Days Apart in Santa Fe Home**
**Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa Pass Away Just Days Apart in Santa Fe Home**
Oscar-winning actor and his wife die of natural causes, shedding light on their final days.
Gene Hackman, the esteemed Oscar-winning actor known for iconic roles, has passed away from natural causes at the age of 95, one week after his wife, Betsy Arakawa, who died from a rare viral infection. The couple, married for over three decades, faced severe health challenges leading up to their deaths.
According to a New Mexico medical investigator, Hackman's death on February 18 was attributed to coronary artery disease, with advanced Alzheimer's disease contributing. In contrast, Arakawa succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome—a rare respiratory illness transmitted from rodents—approximately a week earlier. Investigators highlighted that while hantavirus cases in New Mexico have been historically low, with 136 cases in 50 years, it can be fatal.
Dr. Heather Jarrell, from the New Mexico Medical Investigator's Office, indicated that Arakawa was last seen on February 11, and her health rapidly declined thereafter. Hackman, exhibiting signs of severe Alzheimer’s, may not have comprehended his wife's death. Their bodies were discovered following a wellness check by neighbors, revealing signs of distress in their living conditions.
Moreover, the medical examination revealed potential indicators of rodent activity in their home, leading to considerations regarding how Arakawa contracted the virus. Despite extensive health issues, including Hackman’s heart disease and chronic hypertension, there were no initial signs of foul play or unsafe living conditions. Both actors took medication for various ailments, and it was reported that their pets were present, with one unfortunately found deceased.
Gene Hackman's storied career spanned several decades, earning accolades for his performances in classics such as "The French Connection" and "Unforgiven.” Hackman, who loved acting yet disliked its peripheral chaos, withdrew from the industry to enjoy a quieter existence in New Mexico following his last film appearance in 2004.
The legacy Hackman leaves behind resonates through his memorable film roles and awards. He is survived by three adult children from a previous marriage, highlighting the personal connections forged beyond his cinematic achievements. The community mourns the loss of both Hackman and Arakawa, underscoring their valuable contributions to the arts.
According to a New Mexico medical investigator, Hackman's death on February 18 was attributed to coronary artery disease, with advanced Alzheimer's disease contributing. In contrast, Arakawa succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome—a rare respiratory illness transmitted from rodents—approximately a week earlier. Investigators highlighted that while hantavirus cases in New Mexico have been historically low, with 136 cases in 50 years, it can be fatal.
Dr. Heather Jarrell, from the New Mexico Medical Investigator's Office, indicated that Arakawa was last seen on February 11, and her health rapidly declined thereafter. Hackman, exhibiting signs of severe Alzheimer’s, may not have comprehended his wife's death. Their bodies were discovered following a wellness check by neighbors, revealing signs of distress in their living conditions.
Moreover, the medical examination revealed potential indicators of rodent activity in their home, leading to considerations regarding how Arakawa contracted the virus. Despite extensive health issues, including Hackman’s heart disease and chronic hypertension, there were no initial signs of foul play or unsafe living conditions. Both actors took medication for various ailments, and it was reported that their pets were present, with one unfortunately found deceased.
Gene Hackman's storied career spanned several decades, earning accolades for his performances in classics such as "The French Connection" and "Unforgiven.” Hackman, who loved acting yet disliked its peripheral chaos, withdrew from the industry to enjoy a quieter existence in New Mexico following his last film appearance in 2004.
The legacy Hackman leaves behind resonates through his memorable film roles and awards. He is survived by three adult children from a previous marriage, highlighting the personal connections forged beyond his cinematic achievements. The community mourns the loss of both Hackman and Arakawa, underscoring their valuable contributions to the arts.
