In a tragic sequence of events that concluded last month, actor Gene Hackman passed away just a week after the death of his wife, Betsy (Arakawa) Hackman, bringing a somber end to their long marriage.
According to Fox News, the couple died from separate causes at their Santa Fe home, her from a viral infection, and him from chronic heart disease exacerbated by Alzheimer's.
Gene Hackman, celebrated for his wide-ranging acting career, succumbed to hypertensive atherosclerosis cardiovascular disease, a severe heart condition worsened by Alzheimer’s disease on approximately February 18, 2025. His condition was closely monitored by his pacemaker, which detected an abnormal heart rhythm on the day of his likely death.
Betsy (Arakawa) Hackman’s death preceded her husband's, occurring around February 11, 2025. She was last seen in public on the same day, visiting various local establishments including a veterinary clinic and a grocery store. Dr. Heather Jarrell, who conducted the autopsies on the couple, noted the severe nature of Gene's heart disease and the advanced stage of Alzheimer’s affecting his brain. She commented on the complexity of his condition, citing it as the cause of death.
"He was in a very poor state of health, and he had significant heart disease. And I think ultimately that is what resulted in his, in his death,” said Dr. Jarrell about Gene Hackman. The advanced state of his Alzheimer's disease suggested he might not have been aware of his wife’s passing, according to Dr. Jarrell.
Regarding Betsy Hackman’s cause of death, Dr. Jarrell explained, "This occurs after a one- to eight-week exposure to excrement from a, primarily, particular mouse species, that carries hantavirus." Her comments highlight the lethal nature of Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome, a rare but deadly respiratory disease.
Dr. Erin Phipps added context to the incidence of Hantavirus in the area, stating, "We have identified 136 infections over the past 50 years in New Mexico residents, five of these in Santa Fe County,” emphasizing the seriousness and rarity of the disease.
Upon discovering the bodies of the couple and one of their dogs on February 26, 2025, local authorities initially suspected foul play. No signs of trauma were seen, spurring a full criminal investigation to ensure a thorough examination.
Tests carried out in the Hackman home included checks for carbon monoxide and significant gas leaks, all of which returned negative results. A minor gas leak was found at one stove burner but was not considered to have contributed to the deaths.
Sheriff Adan Mendoza commented on the findings, noting, "According to the pathologist, I think that is a very good assumption that that was his last day of life," about Gene Hackman’s death date determined by the abnormal readings on his pacemaker.
The couple, who had been married for over 30 years, had settled in Santa Fe, where they enjoyed a relatively private life away from the Hollywood spotlight. Their passing within such a short interval of each other has resonated deeply with fans and the film community alike.
As the final details of their conditions and the circumstances surrounding their deaths are discussed in media and among public health officials, the dual tragedies highlight important issues regarding disease awareness and elderly care, particularly for those with debilitating conditions such as Alzheimer's.
The legacy of Gene Hackman, with a career spanning several decades and numerous accolades, coupled with the poignant end to his life story, calls for a reflection on the impacts of both heart disease and Alzheimer's, especially in aging populations.
As the community and fans mourn, the focus now also shifts to understanding hantavirus better and increasing awareness about preventive measures to curb such tragic incidents in the future. This event serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of health and the unpredictability of life.