Hollywood legend Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 65, were found dead in their New Mexico home under tragic circumstances. Arakawa died on February 11 from Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome, a disease linked to rodent droppings. Hackman, suffering from advanced Alzheimer’s, was unable to seek help due to his lack of a cellphone and likely didn’t understand the situation. He survived for about a week before passing away from heart disease on February 18. Their bodies were found on February 26.
Hackman, disconnected from technology, had no way to call for help after his wife’s death. The couple’s beloved dog, Zinna, also died. Medical experts confirmed Arakawa’s cause of death was hantavirus, contracted from rodent exposure. Despite the heartbreaking situation, friends of Hackman expressed disbelief, as he had been able to write and paint despite his Alzheimer’s.
Authorities have ruled both deaths as natural, and their passing leaves behind a sorrowful end to a 30-year marriage, shocking Hollywood and their fans.
