A medical investigation into the death of Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman reveals he likely died of cardiovascular disease, complicated by Alzheimer's, a week after his wife, Betsy Arakawa, succumbed to hantavirus. This update from New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator Chief Medical Examiner Heather Jarrell clarifies the circumstances surrounding the couple's deaths, previously deemed "suspicious" in a search warrant. Hackman, 95, passed away, while Arakawa, 65, is believed to have died on February 11th, fifteen days before their bodies were discovered in their New Mexico home along with a deceased dog. The CDC classifies hantavirus as a potentially fatal illness spread primarily by rodents.
Sheriff Adan Mendoza reported that security footage shows Arakawa visiting a local market and pharmacy on the day of her death, and she also had a massage appointment. Hackman's pacemaker registered its final event on February 17th, suggesting his death occurred a week after his wife's. Autopsy results ruled out carbon monoxide poisoning and gas leaks as causes of death. The couple were found in separate rooms.
News of their deaths, which broke on February 27th, shocked the film community. Hackman, a two-time Oscar winner, starred in iconic films like Superman, The French Connection, and Unforgiven. He retired from acting in 2004, citing his doctor's advice to reduce stress on his heart.
For a retrospective on Hackman's impressive career, explore our list of his 20 best films.
