- Gene Hackman died of heart disease complicated by Alzheimer’s
- Betsy Arakawa succumbed to rare hantavirus days earlier
- Both found deceased in their New Mexico home after two weeks
- Authorities ruled out foul play, confirmed natural causes
- Family dog also found dead, necropsy pending
The entertainment world mourns the loss of legendary actor Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife Betsy Arakawa, 65, whose deaths reveal a heartbreaking sequence of medical events. Found unresponsive in their Santa Fe residence on February 26, the couple’s passing sparked nationwide curiosity until forensic experts pieced together the tragic timeline.
Investigators confirmed Hackman’s death resulted from advanced heart disease, exacerbated by Alzheimer’s-related cognitive decline. His pacemaker data shows irregular heart rhythms beginning February 17, with final cardiac activity recorded February 18. Arakawa’s demise preceded his, with hantavirus pulmonary syndrome listed as her official cause of death.
The couple’s secluded lifestyle delayed discovery of their deaths by approximately 14 days. Maintenance workers initially alerted authorities after encountering locked doors and motionless figures visible through windows. Police later found Hackman collapsed near an entryway and Arakawa in a bathroom, alongside their deceased pet dog Zinna.
New Mexico health officials note hantavirus infections remain rare but carry a 38% mortality rate statewide. The virus spreads through contact with infected rodent droppings, often in poorly ventilated spaces. Arakawa’s case marks the region’s first hantavirus fatality this year, though 15 cases were reported nationally in 2023.
Forensic pathologists emphasize the role of Hackman’s Alzheimer’s in this tragedy. Patients with advanced dementia often cannot recognize emergencies or call for help, creating critical delays in medical response. This case underscores the need for specialized care systems for elderly couples managing multiple health conditions.
Authorities continue investigating Zinna’s unexpected death, though veterinary records show the kelpie mix recently underwent routine surgery. Two other healthy dogs survived the incident, suggesting environmental factors rather than prolonged neglect contributed to Zinna’s passing.