Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman passed away from heart disease in a state of advanced Alzheimer’s, just days after his wife, Betsy Arakawa, died from a rare virus spread by mice, according to autopsy results released in New Mexico. The couple was found dead in their home in Santa Fe, along with one of their dogs. Hackman’s deteriorating health due to Alzheimer’s likely prevented him from realizing his wife had passed away. Arakawa succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare disease transmitted through rodent droppings.
Hackman, 95, and Arakawa, 64, were active members of the Santa Fe community, where they had lived since the 1980s. The couple kept a low profile in recent years as Hackman’s health declined. The actor, known for his roles in films like The French Connection and Unforgiven, had retired from acting in the early 2000s.
Authorities found no signs of foul play in the couple’s deaths, with Hackman’s cause of death attributed to his heart condition. While there was no evidence of rodent activity in their home, inspectors found evidence outside. One of their dogs appeared to have died of starvation, suggesting the couple had collapsed suddenly. The passing of Hackman and Arakawa marks the end of an era in Hollywood and Santa Fe, where they were beloved members of the community.
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