Gene Hackman's Death Follows Wife's by One Week, Medical Probe Finds

A medical investigation into the tragic death of Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman has shed light on the circumstances surrounding his passing, which occurred one week after his wife, Betsy Arakawa, succumbed to hantavirus. According to a report from the New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator, Chief Medical Examiner Heather Jarrell confirmed that Hackman, aged 95, died of cardiovascular disease, with Alzheimer's also contributing to his demise.

The couple's deaths, initially deemed "suspicious" in a search warrant issued late last month, have garnered significant attention. Arakawa, 65, is believed to have passed away on February 11, 15 days before their bodies were discovered in their New Mexico home. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identifies hantavirus as a severe illness primarily spread by rodents, including mice and rats, capable of causing death.

Sheriff Adan Mendoza provided further details in a recent news conference, noting that security camera footage showed Arakawa visiting a local Sprouts market and CVS on the day of her death. She also had a conversation with a massage therapist that same day. Hackman's pacemaker recorded its last event on February 17, indicating he passed away a week after Arakawa. The couple, along with one deceased dog, were found in separate rooms without any evidence of a gas leak. Subsequent autopsies confirmed negative results for carbon monoxide.

The news of Hackman and Arakawa's passing sent shockwaves through the film community when it broke on February 27. Hackman, celebrated for his roles in iconic films such as Superman, The French Connection, and Unforgiven, among others, retired from acting in 2004. His decision to step away from the screen was influenced by his doctor's advice to avoid putting excessive strain on his heart, as he shared with Empire magazine.

For those interested in exploring more of Hackman's distinguished career, you can view our curated list of his 20 best films.