Gene Hackman dies at home a week after wife’s death from hantavirus, authorities say

Forensic experts have concluded that veteran actor Gene Hackman, 95, died at his Santa Fe home from heart disease compounded by advanced Alzheimer’s complications, reportedly on an empty stomach, a week after his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 65, succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome.

he remains of both individuals were discovered on February 26 by maintenance and security workers, who alerted local police. Authorities have determined that Arakawa likely passed away on February 11 at home from hantavirus—a rare but potentially fatal disease transmitted through infected rodent droppings.

According to chief medical investigator Dr. Heather Jarrell, Hackman’s significant heart disease and deteriorated health state were major contributing factors in his death. “He was in a very poor state of health. He had significant heart disease, and I think ultimately that’s what resulted in his death,” Dr. Jarrell said. She added that due to the advanced stage of his Alzheimer’s, Hackman may not have been aware of his wife’s passing.

Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza provided additional context about Arakawa’s last known movements. On February 11, she was reported to have run a series of errands—visiting a pharmacy, pet store, and grocery store—before returning to the couple’s gated neighborhood.

Both deaths have been ruled as natural causes. The tragic discovery has drawn attention to the challenges posed by aging, chronic health conditions, and rare infectious diseases.

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