Police have revealed that Gene Hackman likely passed away a week after his wife, Betsy Arakawa, and may not have known she had died. The couple was found in their Santa Fe home on February 26 after a neighbor requested a welfare check. However, an investigation by the chief medical examiner of New Mexico confirmed that they died on different days from unrelated causes.
Arakawa, 65, passed away on February 11 from Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare and serious respiratory illness. Hackman, 95, died around February 18 due to hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, with Alzheimer’s disease listed as a contributing factor. His pacemaker recorded its last activity on February 17, suggesting he passed shortly after. Due to his advanced Alzheimer’s, investigators believe he likely didn’t realize his wife had already died.
Initial speculation suggested carbon monoxide poisoning, but authorities found no evidence of a gas leak in their home. A minor gas leak was detected near a stove burner, but officials ruled it out as a cause of death. Toxicology reports showed no signs of foul play, and both deaths have been classified as natural.
The tragic discovery has left fans mourning the legendary actor, known for his roles in The French Connection and Unforgiven. While questions about their final days remain, the official timeline provides some clarity on their passing.
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