Hollywood Icon Gene Hackman and Wife Betsy Found Dead in Their Santa Fe Home
The entertainment world is mourning the loss of legendary actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, who tragically passed away just seven days apart.
The shocking details of their deaths have now been revealed by authorities, shedding light on the heartbreaking circumstances surrounding the couple’s final days.
Betsy Hackman’s Cause of Death: A Rare but Fatal Virus
Betsy, 65, passed away due to hantavirus, a rare but deadly disease linked to rodent droppings.
The virus, which can be transmitted through rodent urine, saliva, and feces, presents flu-like symptoms but can rapidly develop into severe respiratory distress.
Heather Jarrell, New Mexico’s chief medical examiner, confirmed on Friday, March 7, that Betsy’s last known communication was an email sent on February 11.
Tragically, she was found collapsed in the bathroom near a space heater and scattered pills, with no indication that she had sought medical help before her passing.
Gene Hackman’s Cause of Death: A Heartbreaking End
Gene Hackman, the two-time Academy Award-winning actor known for iconic roles in The French Connection and Unforgiven, succumbed to a combination of severe heart disease, high blood pressure, and advanced Alzheimer’s disease.
Authorities believe that he may have been alone with Betsy’s body for days before his own passing.
According to medical reports, the last activity on Hackman’s pacemaker was recorded on February 17, suggesting he died around that time.
His autopsy also revealed that he had no food in his stomach at the time of death, though there were no signs of dehydration.
Grim Discovery: Hackmans Found in Advanced States of Decomposition
On February 26, authorities were alerted to the couple’s Santa Fe home after a pest control worker noticed something amiss.
A neighborhood security officer peered through a window and discovered their bodies before calling 911.
Hackman was found in the mudroom of their home, while Betsy was in the bathroom.
Their beloved dog, Zinna, was also found dead in a nearby closet, while two other dogs on the property were discovered alive.
No Foul Play Suspected, but a Mysterious Gas Leak Raises Questions
Investigators found a small gas leak on one of the couple’s stovetops, but it was ultimately ruled out as a contributing factor in their deaths.
Additionally, officials discovered signs of rodent activity in outlying structures on the property, though the risk in the main home was considered low.
Despite the tragic circumstances, authorities do not suspect foul play.
The case underscores the dangers of hantavirus, which remains rare but has a fatality rate of up to 42% in New Mexico.
Gene Hackman’s Legacy: One of Hollywood’s Finest Actors
Gene Hackman, 95, was widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of his generation.
Throughout his illustrious career, he won two Academy Awards and captivated audiences with his commanding performances.
After retiring from Hollywood in 2004, he embraced a quiet life in Santa Fe with Betsy, a talented concert pianist.
Their untimely passing marks the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy of excellence in film and music.
Fans around the world continue to honor and remember the contributions of this extraordinary couple.
Source: People
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