Gene Hackman and Wife Died a Week Apart from Separate Causes, Officials Confirm

Actor Gene Hackman and wife, Betsy Arakawa, died a week apart in their New Mexico home. Officials confirmed Hackman succumbed to heart disease, while Arakawa died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. Investigators found no signs of foul play.

Timeline of Events

Authorities believe Arakawa died on February 11, 2025, after visiting a pharmacy, pet store, and grocery store. She returned home to their gated community and likely passed away that same day. Hackman, suffering from advanced Alzheimer’s disease, may not have realized his wife had died.

On February 18, Hackman’s pacemaker recorded his time of death, seven days after his wife. Officials believe he remained alone in the house, unaware of Arakawa’s passing.

The couple’s bodies were discovered on February 26 after a wellness check. Security personnel found Hackman near his cane in the entryway and Arakawa on the bathroom floor.

Causes of Death

The New Mexico chief medical examiner, Dr. Heather Jarrell, confirmed Hackman died from heart disease, with Alzheimer’s, high blood pressure, and kidney disease as contributing factors.

Arakawa’s death resulted from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare and often fatal lung infection. Investigators found no signs of medication overdose, and toxicology reports ruled out carbon monoxide poisoning.

Impact of Alzheimer’s on Hackman’s Final Days

Dr. Jarrell suggested Hackman may not have been aware that his wife had died due to his progressing Alzheimer’s disease. His condition may have prevented him from seeking help.

Investigation Findings and Remaining Questions

Officials confirmed one of the couple’s three dogs also died, though veterinarians noted dogs do not contract hantavirus. The sheriff’s office continues to investigate the dog’s death and data from personal cell phones found in the home. However, law enforcement does not suspect foul play.

Hackman’s Legacy and Life in Retirement

Hackman, a two-time Oscar winner, starred in iconic films like The French Connection, Hoosiers, and Superman. After retiring in the early 2000s, he focused on writing novels and painting while living a quiet life in Santa Fe. He also served on the board of the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and invested in local businesses.

Arakawa, a former concert pianist, met Hackman in the 1980s while working at a gym. They shared a long-lasting private life away from Hollywood’s spotlight.

Authorities have ruled the couple’s deaths as natural causes. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office will officially close the case after final reports are reviewed.

More…

• https://www.cbc.ca/news/entertainment/gene-hackman-death-update-1.7478165
• https://www.overheretoronto.com/gene-hackman-and-wife-betsy-arakawa-found-dead-in-new-mexico-home
• https://www.cnn.com/2025/02/28/us/what-we-know-gene-hackman-betsy-arakawa-hnk/index.html