Gene Hackman’s wife, Betsy Arakawa, tragically passed away days before the famous actor, and the cause of her death has been confirmed as hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. The couple was found deceased in their home in Santa Fe, New Mexico, along with their dog. Medical experts have determined that Betsy likely died first, around February 11, with Gene passing away several days later, around February 18. This confirmation was made at a recent press conference where details of the autopsy findings were shared.
Hantavirus is a serious disease that can be transmitted to humans through rodents and can cause severe health issues, including death. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has highlighted the dangers of hantavirus. Dr. Heather Jarrell, the chief medical examiner from New Mexico, explained that Betsy’s death was a result of hantavirus with attendant pulmonary syndrome, emphasizing that it was a “natural” occurrence. Symptoms of hantavirus typically include fever, fatigue, muscle aches, headaches, and dizziness.
Dr. Jarrell also provided insight into Gene Hackman’s passing, citing hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease as the cause of death, with Alzheimer’s disease as a significant contributory factor. She outlined the timeline leading up to their deaths, revealing that Gene’s heart activity ceased on February 18. While the exact timing of their deaths cannot be definitively pinpointed, it is believed that Gene passed away within a few days of his wife’s death. The medication found in their home, including thyroid medication taken by Betsy as prescribed, was not identified as a cause of her death.
The medical examiner’s report sheds light on the tragic loss of both Gene Hackman and his wife, painting a picture of the sequence of events leading to their untimely deaths. The confirmation of Betsy Arakawa’s cause of death and the underlying health conditions contributing to Gene’s passing provide closure to their family, friends, and fans. The rare nature of hantavirus and its devastating consequences serve as a reminder of the importance of understanding and preventing such diseases. The legacy of Gene Hackman, a beloved Hollywood icon, lives on through his memorable performances and the impact he made on the entertainment industry.
The press conference where these details were disclosed offers a glimpse into the thorough investigative process undertaken by medical authorities to determine the circumstances surrounding the deaths of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa. As fans mourn the loss of this talented actor and his wife, the medical community continues to study and educate the public on rare diseases like hantavirus. The couple’s legacy will endure through the memories they created and the contributions they made to their respective fields. The confirmation of their causes of death brings closure to a chapter marked by tragedy but also underscores the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing the time we have with loved ones.