Authorities in Santa Fe, New Mexico have disclosed the official causes of death for actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, whose bodies were discovered in their residence last month under suspicious circumstances.

Medical Findings from Autopsies

An autopsy report from the Office of the Medical Investigator reveals that Hackman, an Oscar-winning actor, had a documented history of heart issues, including:

• Congestive Heart Failure: Hackman had been living with congestive heart failure.
• Cardiovascular Complications: The autopsy identified severe chronic hypertensive changes, extensive atherosclerotic disease, and a previous aortic valve replacement.
• Neurodegenerative Diagnosis: The report noted features consistent with Alzheimer’s disease.
• Occurrence of Myocardial Infarctions: Significant infarctions were observed in the heart.

Despite testing negative for Hantavirus, a trace amount of acetone was found in Hackman’s system, suggesting possible fasting effects.

Details of Betsy Arakawa’s Death

In contrast, Betsy Arakawa was found to have succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, linked to rodent excretions. Symptoms of this condition include flu-like indicators such as:

• Fever
• Muscle Aches
• Cough
• Potential Respiratory Distress

Arakawa’s deteriorating state indicated that she had been actively researching flu-like symptoms, with records showing searches related to COVID-19 shortly before her death.

Investigation and Findings

The couple’s unexpected deaths were characterized as “suspicious” by detectives, necessitating a comprehensive investigation. Their bodies exhibited similar signs of decomposition.

Notably, no external injuries were detected, and toxicology reports affirmed there were no significant environmental dangers, such as carbon monoxide exposure. A maintenance contractor discovered their bodies, prompting a rapid response from emergency services.