Investigations Continue into Deaths of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa Hackman
Officials have disclosed the causes of death for Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa Hackman, 65, following an ongoing investigation conducted by authorities in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Sheriff Adan Mendoza confirmed that the inquiry remains active after the couple’s bodies were discovered at their home on February 26, 2025.
Causes of Death Revealed
During a press conference, Dr. Heather Jarrell, the Chief Medical Investigator, noted that Gene’s death was attributed to hypertensive atherosclerosis cardiovascular disease, with Alzheimer’s disease significantly contributing. Betsy was reported to have succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a serious condition spread through rodent exposure.
Timeline of Events
According to Dr. Jarrell’s findings, it is likely that Betsy passed away around February 11, with Gene found to have died approximately a week later, on February 18, 2025, inferred from his pacemaker activity records.
Ongoing Investigation Details
Despite the clarity on the causes of death, Sheriff Mendoza emphasized the need for thorough investigations, including the retrieval of the couple’s cell phone records and a necropsy on their dog, Zinna, who was also found deceased in the home. Mendoza stated that the investigation is still open pending these analyses.
Recovering Evidence
Authorities have taken two cell phones from the residence as part of their inquiry. Mendoza reported that while he believed a considerable amount of questions had been answered, they awaited further insights from the necropsy and phone records to gain more context about the couple’s final days.
Betsy’s Last Days
Prior to her death, records showed that Betsy had various activities, including a visit to a local market and a pharmacy on February 11, the last confirmed day she was active. There were also unopened emails on her computer from that day, signifying no further communication afterward.
Health Risks of Hantavirus
Dr. Jarrell elaborated on the implications of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, describing its flu-like symptoms, which can rapidly progress to severe respiratory distress. The disease, rare but dangerous, has recorded a high fatality rate among affected individuals in New Mexico.
Concerns Surrounding Zinna’s Death
Zinna, their dog, was found crated and deceased. Experts have raised questions regarding potential starvation or dehydration but clarified that dogs cannot contract hantavirus.
Conclusion
The circumstances surrounding the deaths of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa Hackman continue to unfold as authorities seek to close any remaining gaps in the investigation. The couple has left behind a legacy in Hollywood, with their contributions being mourned by many.
For further developments on this story, stay tuned as more information becomes available.
