Gene Hackman and his wife died a week apart from separate causes, officials say
Gene Hackman and Wife’s Tragic Deaths Revealed by Authorities
Authorities have disclosed the causes of death for legendary actor Gene Hackman and his wife, shedding light on the heartbreaking circumstances surrounding their passing. The couple is believed to have died a full week apart at their home in New Mexico from two different diseases.
The chief medical examiner in Santa Fe, Dr. Heather Jarrell, revealed that Hackman’s wife, Betsy Arakawa, succumbed to a rare lung infection known as hantavirus pulmonary syndrome on Feb. 11. This condition typically presents with flu-like symptoms but can progress to vomiting, abdominal pain, and severe difficulty breathing.
Dr. Jarrell further explained that Hackman, 95, passed away as a result of heart disease and displayed signs of advanced Alzheimer’s disease. Based on pacemaker data, it is believed that he died on Feb. 18 — seven days after his wife.
Tragically, authorities believe that Hackman was alone in the house with his wife’s body during that time. Due to the progression of his Alzheimer’s, he may not have been aware that Arakawa had passed away. Dr. Jarrell stated, “It’s quite possible he was not aware she was deceased.”
The couple’s partially mummified bodies were not discovered at their home until Feb. 26 — two weeks after Arakawa’s death and eight days after Hackman’s passing. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office has ruled out foul play, and tests for carbon monoxide poisoning returned negative results. Additionally, the couple’s dog was found dead in its crate.
As this tragic story continues to unfold, the world mourns the loss of Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa. Their legacy in the entertainment industry and the hearts of their loved ones will endure, despite the heartbreaking circumstances of their deaths.
More updates to follow as details emerge.
