Gene Hackman's Death Follows Wife's by One Week, Medical Probe Finds

A medical investigation into the death of Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman has revealed that he likely passed away one week after hantavirus claimed the life of his wife, Betsy Arakawa, according to Variety. The investigation, which was deemed “suspicious” in a search warrant issued late last month, has been updated by New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator Chief Medical Examiner Heather Jarrell. Jarrell confirmed that Hackman, aged 95, died of cardiovascular disease, with Alzheimer’s also contributing to his passing.

It is believed that Arakawa, aged 65, succumbed to hantavirus on February 11, 15 days before her body and Hackman’s were discovered in their New Mexico home. The CDC describes hantavirus as a “family of viruses which can cause serious illnesses and death,” spread primarily by rodents such as mice and rats.

Sheriff Adan Mendoza, in a recent news conference, noted that security camera footage showed Arakawa visiting a local Sprouts market and CVS on the day of her death. She had also spoken with a massage therapist that same day. Hackman’s pacemaker recorded its final event on February 17, indicating he died one week after Arakawa. The couple, along with one deceased dog, were found in separate rooms of their home, with no evidence of a gas leak. Subsequent autopsies tested negative for carbon monoxide.

The news of Hackman and Arakawa’s passing, which spread on February 27, sent shockwaves through the film community. Hackman, a celebrated actor, won two Oscars and starred in iconic films such as Superman, The French Connection, Unforgiven, and many others. He retired from acting in 2004, a decision influenced by his doctor’s advice to avoid putting too much stress on his heart, as he shared with Empire.

For a deeper look into Hackman’s illustrious career, you can explore our list of his 20 best films.