On March 7, 2025, officials from the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office and the New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator confirmed the causes of death for Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa.
Gene Hackman’s health and cause of death
Gene Hackman, 95, died from hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Alzheimer’s disease contributed to his death. His wife, Betsy Arakawa, 65, passed away from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome.
This rare illness, transmitted by rodents, caused flu-like symptoms. Health investigators believe Arakawa died first, around February 11. Hackman survived for a week after her death, possibly unaware due to his Alzheimer’s. Hackman’s death occurred around February 18.
Discovery of the bodies and investigation
Authorities found the bodies of both Hackman and Arakawa on February 26, 2025, during a wellness check at their home in Santa Fe. They were in separate rooms, and there were no signs of trauma. Investigators ruled out foul play. The search warrant, however, noted suspicious circumstances, prompting a deeper investigation.
Hackman’s pacemaker data showed heart activity on February 17 and irregular rhythms on February 18. This suggests Hackman passed away after Arakawa. Dr. Heather Jarrell, chief medical examiner, said it was likely Arakawa died on February 11. Hackman’s death occurred between February 18 and February 26. The exact timing remains unclear.
Medical findings
The medical examiner reported that Hackman’s stomach was empty at the time of his death. However, there were no signs of dehydration. This suggests he survived several days after his wife’s death. Given Hackman’s Alzheimer’s, he might not have been aware of her passing.
Dr. Jarrell explained that it is difficult to determine the exact time of death in such cases. Hackman’s health conditions, including Alzheimer’s, complicated the timeline. Both deaths were confirmed to be from natural causes.
Gene Hackman, a Hollywood icon, earned two Academy Awards: Best Actor for The French Connection (1972) and Best Supporting Actor for Unforgiven (1993). His legacy in cinema remains strong.
