A medical investigation into the death of Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman reveals he likely died a week after his wife, Betsy Arakawa, succumbed to hantavirus (via Variety). New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator Chief Medical Examiner Heather Jarrell reports that Hackman, 95, died of cardiovascular disease, with Alzheimer's disease contributing. Arakawa, 65, is believed to have died February 11th, fifteen days before their bodies were discovered in their New Mexico home. The CDC classifies hantavirus as a family of viruses capable of causing severe illness and death, primarily spread through rodents.
Sheriff Adan Mendoza stated that security footage shows Arakawa visiting a local Sprouts market and CVS on the day of her death, and that she also spoke with a massage therapist. Hackman's pacemaker recorded its final event on February 17th, suggesting death a week after Arakawa. The couple, along with a deceased dog, were found in separate rooms; a gas leak was ruled out, and carbon monoxide tests were negative.
News of their deaths, reported February 27th, shocked the film community. Hackman, a two-time Oscar winner, starred in iconic films such as Superman, The French Connection, and Unforgiven. He retired from acting in 2004, citing his doctor's advice to avoid stressing his heart (Empire).
For a look back at Hackman's illustrious career, explore our list of his 20 best films.
