Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman has passed away at the age of 95 due to coronary artery disease, with advanced Alzheimer’s disease as a contributing factor.
His death came about a week after his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 65, succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), a rare respiratory illness.
Hackman died in his Santa Fe, New Mexico home on February 18, while authorities believe Ms. Arakawa passed away on February 11.
According to Dr. Heather Jarrell of the New Mexico Medical Investigator’s Office, it is “quite possible” that Hackman, due to his advanced Alzheimer’s, was unaware of his wife’s passing.
Ms. Arakawa’s last recorded activities included visits to a grocery store, pharmacy, and pet store before returning home.
Investigators are still determining how she contracted hantavirus, which is transmitted through contact with infected rodents.
New Mexico Public Health Veterinarian Erin Phipps noted that while rodent activity was detected on the property, the risk inside the main house was considered low.
The couple was discovered after a neighborhood security check revealed their bodies inside the house.
Their remains were in an advanced state of decomposition.
Hackman was found in a sideroom near the kitchen, while Ms. Arakawa was in the bathroom, with scattered pills nearby. One of their three dogs was found dead inside a crate, while the other two were alive.
Authorities found no signs of forced entry, foul play, or gas leaks, and tests for carbon monoxide poisoning were negative.
Hackman, known for his roles in The French Connection and Unforgiven, won two Academy Awards during his career and starred in over 100 films, including Bonnie and Clyde, Superman, and Mississippi Burning.
Hackman met Ms. Arakawa in the 1980s and had been married to her for over 30 years.
He is survived by three adult children from his previous marriage.
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