Gene Hackman and Wife’s Cause of Death Revealed by New Meixco Officials

Hollywood Icon Gene Hackman and His Wife Pass Away Days Apart

Legendary actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, tragically passed away in their Santa Fe home, with officials now revealing their causes of death. According to the New Mexico medical examiner, Hackman died from complications related to heart disease and advanced Alzheimer’s, while Arakawa succumbed to hantavirus, a rare but serious illness linked to rodent exposure.

RELATED STORIES: Gene Hackman and Wife Cause Of Death Remains Unknown

Authorities reported that Arakawa likely passed on February 11, and Hackman may have died just seven days later. The shocking details were confirmed during a press conference led by Chief Medical Examiner Heather Jarrell, who stated:

“He was in a very poor state of health. He was in an advanced state of Alzheimer’s disease, and it was quite possible he did not know that she was deceased.”

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What Led to Betsy Arakawa’s Death? Understanding Hantavirus

What Is Hantavirus and How Did Arakawa Contract It?

Medical reports indicate that Betsy Arakawa likely contracted hantavirus after exposure to rodent feces, which can cause severe respiratory symptoms. Dr. Jarrell explained that symptoms typically appear within three to six days, meaning Arakawa may have unknowingly been ill for days before her passing, the New York Post reported.

Authorities also confirmed that rodent activity was found near the home, though investigators later determined the exposure risk was low.

What Are the Symptoms of Hantavirus?

Hantavirus infections can cause:

• Flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, and muscle aches
• Severe respiratory distress
• Organ failure in extreme cases

The virus is not contagious between humans but can be deadly if left untreated.

The Final Days of Gene Hackman

Did Gene Hackman Know His Wife Had Passed?

As details emerge about Gene Hackman’s condition, medical experts believe his advanced Alzheimer’s disease may have left him unaware of his wife’s passing.

Reports indicate:

• Hackman was in extremely poor health in his final days.
• His heart condition worsened, leading to fatal complications.
• Alzheimer’s likely impacted his awareness of his surroundings.

Hackman, a two-time Academy Award winner, had been largely out of the public eye in recent years, reportedly battling declining health privately.