Tragic Discovery: Rodent Infestation Linked to Hackman Couple's Deaths

Report uncovers environmental hazards that contributed to the tragic deaths of the couple.

In a heartbreaking development, rodent nests and deceased rodents have been found at the New Mexico property where Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were discovered dead earlier this year. According to records from the New Mexico Department of Public Health, an environmental assessment revealed evidence of rodent infestations in eight detached buildings surrounding their home.

Betsy Arakawa, 65, was confirmed to have died from hantavirus, a severe respiratory illness that is transmitted by infected rodents. It is believed she passed away approximately a week before her husband, Gene Hackman, 95, who was battling advanced stages of Alzheimer's disease. The couple's bodies were found in their residence on February 26.

The assessment conducted on March 5—shortly after the couple's tragic discovery—identified rodent droppings, a living rodent, and a nest in three garages. Further findings included droppings spread across two small external structures and three sheds, with rodents also observed in two abandoned vehicles on the property. Notably, the main residence itself showed no signs of rodent activity, according to the New Mexico public health report.

Authorities believe that Betsy Arakawa contracted hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), a critical lung infection characterized by symptoms such as fatigue, fever, muscle aches, dizziness, and abdominal issues. The disease can be deadly, with a mortality rate of about 38% if respiratory symptoms manifest. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) outlines that hantavirus spreads primarily through inhalation of particles originating from infected rodent urine, droppings, or saliva.

While Arakawa's cause of death was linked to hantavirus, Gene Hackman's demise stemmed from severe heart disease, compounded by advanced Alzheimer's, which experts speculate may have left him unaware of his wife's death.

The situation underscores the importance of proper pest control and awareness regarding animal-borne diseases, particularly in rural areas. Hantavirus incidents have been documented, with the CDC noting 864 cases in the United States from 1993 to 2022, primarily occurring in western rural states.

The tragedy of the Hackman family serves as a reminder of the serious implications of neglected animal infestations and the broader health risks they pose.