New details emerge surrounding the death of Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, shedding light on a series of tragic, deeply unstable events. Authorities now confirm that the couple, who were found dead at their Santa Fe home on February 26, died of natural causes, but are a week apart.
Arakawa, 65, may have passed away on February 11th of Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome, according to findings shared by the Santa Fe Sheriff’s Office and the medical investigator’s office on Friday. Hackman, 95, who developed Alzheimer’s disease, is believed to have died of heart failure a few days later, and perhaps he doesn’t know that his wife has already passed.
A quiet, isolated tragedy
Investigation of the couple’s death initially raised suspicion as authorities found no signs of carbon monoxide poisoning or external trauma. However, forensic analysis revealed that both Hackman and Arakawa died of natural causes under catastrophic circumstances.
“Mr. Hackman has shown evidence of the progression of Alzheimer’s,” Dr. Heather Jarrell said at a press conference Friday. “He was in very poor health. He had serious heart disease and I think it was what ultimately led to his death.”
Arakawa was found nearby in a bathroom with an open prescription and scattered pills. Investigators believe she contracted the hantavirus, which could affect her lungs and lead to severe breathing difficulties. The disease is rare, but known to be fatal, with cases reported in the southwestern United States.
Hackman’s body was found near the kitchen a week later in the mudroom of the house. He collapsed with his wand and sunglasses on the ground beside him. His pacemaker data showed an unusual heart rhythm on February 18th, suggesting that he was likely to die.
Isolation and the effects of Alzheimer’s disease
Investigators believe Hackman may not understand or recognize that due to his advanced stages of Alzheimer’s disease, his wife has passed away. Experts say they may have been unable to handle what happened or take action to seek help.
“It’s quite possible that he didn’t know that she had passed away,” Dr. Jarrell said.
The tough timeline was further supported by evidence that Arakawa stopped answering emails and calls on February 11th. She visited pharmacies, pet stores and grocery stores that day before heading home, and lastly had errands. Authorities have not yet analyzed cell phone data obtained from the residence, allowing them to provide more insight into the last day.
Unfinished investigation
The incident remains open as authorities await additional test results, including necrosis of a couple’s dog found dead in a wooden crate near Arakawa. The couple’s two surviving dogs have been taken from the house, and investigators work to determine whether the hantavirus played a role in the dog’s death.
Hackman’s decline in health and his last day revelation shocked many, especially those in the Santa Fe community who knew him.
“We all knew him should have checked him out,” said Stuart Ashman, a local from Santa Fe, who met Hackman at a Pilates studio. “I didn’t know. …I’m so sad. And she passed away a week before him. My God.”
As the tribute continues to be poured into legendary actors, the circumstances in which he dies add an unforgettable layer to the loss. From his groundbreaking performances to his quiet retirement years, Hackman’s impact on the film remains immeasurable.
This is a developing story.
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Source: The Independent, 9 News
