The bodies of Hollywood legend Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were discovered in February at their Santa Fe residence, marking a tragic end to their decades-long marriage.
According to Fox News, an official autopsy report revealed that Arakawa, 63, succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, with significant fluid accumulation in her chest cavity and mild arterial hardening.
The classical pianist's final medical examination showed no signs of physical trauma, and toxicology tests came back negative for alcohol and illicit substances. However, investigators discovered evidence that Arakawa had been researching COVID-19 and flu-like symptoms on her computer before her death, including an email she sent to her massage therapist about Hackman's health concerns.
The 95-year-old Oscar winner's autopsy painted a picture of deteriorating health conditions. Hackman had been diagnosed with congestive heart failure and received a bi-ventricular pacemaker implant in 2019. The examination also uncovered evidence of severe atherosclerotic and hypertensive cardiovascular disease.
Medical examiners found that Hackman's brain showed signs of advanced-stage Alzheimer's disease. The actor had previously undergone coronary artery stent placements, bypass surgery, and an aortic valve replacement.
Toxicology reports indicated elevated acetone levels in Hackman's system, measuring 5.3 mg/dL compared to the normal range of up to 0.3 mg/dL. These findings suggest a prolonged period of fasting before his death.
Jesse Kesler and Roland Lowe Begay, who had worked as contractors for the couple, found their bodies on February 26. The discovery prompted Kesler, who had maintained a professional relationship with the couple for 16 years, to make an emergency call to authorities.
A search warrant affidavit detailed the condition of the bodies, noting significant decomposition. Arakawa showed signs of facial bloating and mummification in her extremities, while Hackman's body exhibited similar decomposition patterns.
The investigation revealed that both victims had been deceased for an extended period before being discovered, as neighbors reported not seeing the couple for several weeks prior to the discovery.
Health officials confirmed that Arakawa contracted Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare but severe respiratory disease transmitted from rodents to humans. The New Mexico Department of Health verified this finding, though Hackman tested negative for the virus.
Additional medical tests showed that Arakawa did not have COVID-19 or influenza at the time of her death. Her carbon monoxide levels remained within normal parameters, and while caffeine was detected in her system, no other substances were found.
The couple's final health struggles included Hackman experiencing flu-like symptoms, as documented in Arakawa's last communication with her massage therapist on February 11.
Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa's deaths marked the end of a distinguished chapter in Hollywood history. The legendary actor, known for his remarkable career spanning decades, spent his final years battling significant health challenges, including advanced Alzheimer's disease and severe cardiovascular problems. The investigation into their deaths revealed that while Arakawa succumbed to a rare rodent-borne illness, Hackman's passing was attributed to multiple underlying health conditions. The couple's bodies were discovered in their Santa Fe home after weeks without contact, leading maintenance workers to check on their welfare and make the tragic discovery.
