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 (via Variety).
An update regarding the passing of the couple, which was deemed “suspicious” in a search warrant late last month, arrives from New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator Chief Medical Examiner Heather Jarrell, who says Hackman, 95, died of cardiovascular disease. The report also states Alzheimer’s played a part in his passing.
It is believed Arakawa, 65, died February 11, 15 days before her and Hackman’s bodies were discovered in their New Mexico home. The CDC describes hantavirus as a “family of viruses which can cause serious illnesses and death.” It’s a virus primarily spread by rodents, such as mice and rats.
Sheriff Adan Mendoza said in a recent news conference that security camera footage revealed Arakawa visiting a local Sprouts market and CVS the day of her death. She had also spoken with a massage therapist that same day. Hackman’s pacemaker recorded its final event February 17, suggesting he died one week following Arakawa’s passing. The two, along with one deceased dog, were found in separate rooms with no sign of a gas leak, with a following autopsy showing negative tests for carbon monoxide.
News of Hackman and Arakawa’s passing shocked the film community when the news spread February 27. The actor’s career saw him winning two Oscars and appearing in films such as Superman, The French Connection, Unforgiven, and many more. He retired from the film world in 2004, telling Empire that the decision was made after his doctor advised him against putting too much stress on his heart.
For more on Hackman’s work, you can see our list of his 20 best films.
Michael Cripe is a freelance contributor with IGN. He’s best known for his work at sites like The Pitch, The Escapist, and OnlySP. Be sure to give him a follow on Bluesky (@mikecripe.bsky.social) and Twitter (@MikeCripe).
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