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 Variety, the investigation by New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator Chief Medical Examiner Heather Jarrell concluded that Hackman, aged 95, died from cardiovascular disease, with Alzheimer’s also contributing to his demise.

The couple's deaths were initially deemed “suspicious” in a search warrant issued late last month. Arakawa, aged 65, is believed to have passed away on February 11, 15 days before their bodies were discovered in their New Mexico home. The CDC identifies hantavirus as a "family of viruses which can cause serious illnesses and death," primarily transmitted by rodents like mice and rats.

Sheriff Adan Mendoza provided details at 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 had also communicated with a massage therapist that same day. Hackman's pacemaker recorded its last activity on February 17, indicating he died one week after Arakawa. The couple, along with their deceased dog, were found in separate rooms, with no evidence of a gas leak; subsequent autopsies confirmed negative results for carbon monoxide.

The film community was deeply affected by the news of Hackman and Arakawa's passing, which spread on February 27. Hackman, celebrated for his roles in films such as Superman, The French Connection, Unforgiven, and many others, retired from acting in 2004. He shared with Empire that his retirement was prompted by medical advice to avoid stressing his heart.

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