Week after Gene Hackman’s passing, autopsy reports have confirmed that the legendary actor died of natural causes related to heart disease and Alzheimer’s complications. His wife, Betsy Arakawa, reportedly succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare respiratory illness linked to rodent exposure.
Authorities found the couple in their Santa Fe, New Mexico home during a wellness check on February 26, after a maintenance worker raised concerns. Investigators determined that Hackman likely passed on February 17, based on data from his pacemaker, meaning he may have unknowingly lived with his wife’s body for several days before his own death.
No signs of foul play, gas leaks, or carbon monoxide poisoning were detected. However, an open bottle of medication was found near Arakawa. One of their three dogs was also found deceased, while the other two survived.
Hackman, a two-time Academy Award winner, had been living a quiet life in Santa Fe for years. His death prompted an outpouring of tributes from Hollywood, with Clint Eastwood calling him “the finest actor” and Francis Ford Coppola praising his “depth and complexity.”
The actor is survived by three children from his previous marriage.
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