Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were discovered dead in their Santa Fe house on February 26, days after they died. The police determined that Betsy had passed away first, and Gene was alone in the house for about a week before he passed away.
Their two other dogs, Bear and Nikita, were discovered wandering around the property, while another dog, Zinna, was found dead in a crate hidden in a closet. Detectives traced Betsy’s final movements through surveillance. The last sighting was at a CVS Pharmacy on Feb. 9 at approximately 4:20 p.m. She had previously visited to fetch Zinna from Gruda Veterinary Hospital.
Gene Hackman and his wife’s death investigation is still ongoing
The investigation into Gene Hackman’s death continues with officials probing major evidence. Santa Fe Sheriff Adan Mendoza confirmed officials are awaiting toxicology reports along with other medical information before they make any conclusions. Officials received two cell phones, a pill bottle, and a 2025 planner from the couple’s residence, all of which may provide further insight.
One of the issues under consideration is whether Betsy was receiving medical treatment for a hantavirus infection and if any of the medication she was being given could have resulted in complications. The case remains open until all aspects are clarified, such as what the necropsy on the deceased couple’s dog, Zinna, revealed.
What caused Gene Hackman and wife Betsy Arakawa’s death?
Officials determined that Betsy Arakawa had died of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare but fatal disease. Gene Hackman passed away from hypertensive atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s disease. His pacemaker registered its last activity on February 18, and that was likely when he died.
A complete autopsy revealed Hackman to have significant heart disease, a history of heart surgery, and signs of previous heart attacks. His kidneys also showed damage from long-term hypertension. An examination of his brain confirmed severe Alzheimer’s disease as well as vascular changes from his long-term high blood pressure.