Actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, have both passed away under tragic circumstances at their Santa Fe home. Hackman, known for his award-winning roles in films such as "The French Connection" and "Unforgiven," died from coronary artery disease on February 20. His wife, Arakawa, succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) approximately one week earlier. This double loss has cast a somber shadow over the couple's New Mexico residence.
Sheriff's deputies discovered Hackman's body in the sideroom next to the kitchen, accompanied by a walking cane and a pair of sunglasses. Medical experts revealed that the 93-year-old actor had advanced Alzheimer's disease, chronic high blood pressure, and significant heart disease. Dr. Heather Jarrell confirmed that these health issues ultimately led to Hackman's death.
"Quite possible that he was not aware that she [his wife] was deceased," Dr. Heather Jarrell noted regarding Hackman's potential unawareness of his wife's passing.
Meanwhile, Arakawa's body was found in the bathroom, with scattered pills around her. Medication for thyroid and blood pressure treatment, alongside Tylenol, was also discovered in the home. Authorities reported that one of the couple's three dogs was found dead inside a crate near Arakawa, while the remaining two dogs were alive.
Arakawa's death due to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome raises concerns, as 136 cases of the virus have been reported in the state over the past 50 years, with a fatality rate of 42%. Dr. Phipps indicated evidence of rodent activity on the property but noted that the risk inside the main house was considered "low."
The couple's last ordinary day together involved Arakawa visiting a grocery store, a CVS pharmacy, and a pet store on February 11 before returning home in the early evening.
Gene Hackman's career spanned more than five decades and over 100 roles, including the iconic portrayal of supervillain Lex Luthor in the Christopher Reeve-starring "Superman" movies. His last appearance on the big screen was as Monroe Cole in "Welcome to Mooseport" in 2004. Hackman's legacy is marked by his two Academy Awards and his profound influence on American cinema.
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