A medical investigation into the death of Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman reveals he likely died a week after his wife, Betsy Arakawa, succumbed to hantavirus (via Variety). New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator Chief Medical Examiner Heather Jarrell reports that Hackman, 95, died of cardiovascular disease, with Alzheimer's disease contributing. Arakawa, 65, is believed to have died on February 11th, fifteen days before their bodies were discovered in their New Mexico home. The CDC classifies hantavirus as a potentially fatal family of viruses primarily spread by rodents.
Sheriff Adan Mendoza stated that security footage shows Arakawa visiting a Sprouts market and CVS on the day of her death, and she also spoke with a massage therapist. Hackman's pacemaker registered its final event on February 17th, suggesting his death occurred a week after Arakawa's. Both, along with a deceased dog, were found in separate rooms; investigations ruled out carbon monoxide poisoning and gas leaks.
News of their deaths, first reported on February 27th, shocked the film community. Hackman, a two-time Oscar winner, starred in iconic films such as Superman, The French Connection, and Unforgiven. He retired from acting in 2004, citing his doctor's advice to reduce stress on his heart (Empire).
Explore our list of his 20 best films to further appreciate Hackman's remarkable career.
