The Santa Fe estate of late Hollywood actor Gene Hackman has become the center of a troubling health investigation following his death and that of his wife, Betsy Arakawa. According to newly released public health records, the property was found to be infested with rodents just days after authorities discovered the couple’s bodies inside their New Mexico home in February.
The environmental inspection was carried out by the New Mexico Department of Public Health, uncovering multiple dead rodents, nests, and droppings across eight separate outbuildings. These findings came during the investigation into the couple’s sudden deaths and were meant to protect first responders and family members from potential exposure to health hazards, including hantavirus, a rare and dangerous disease.
Rodent infestation raises further concerns about Gene Hackman’s passing
Health officials later confirmed that Betsy died of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, an illness transmitted to humans through exposure to infected rodent droppings, urine, or saliva. The discovery of widespread rodent activity on the Hackman property only intensified public concerns and brought significant attention to the case, which is now a cautionary tale about hidden health dangers in rural estates.
Investigators reported rodent feces in three garages, three sheds, and two casitas, with their nests also found in vehicles on the property. While hantavirus cannot be spread from person to person, the extent of the infestation suggests long-term exposure to the harmful environment. Traps were reportedly in use before the couple’s deaths, but they may have been too late to prevent tragedy.
A tragic end to a quiet life in Santa Fe
Hackman retired from acting and lived a quiet life with Betsy for more than 30 years, before they both died. He suffered hypertensive atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, though Alzheimer’s disease also contributed. Authorities believe he passed away around February 18, likely surviving alone in the home for days after his wife’s death.
New: Police photos reveal the shocking state of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa’s Santa Fe home. pic.twitter.com/fpkHCIvWzN
— Mike Sington (@MikeSington) April 16, 2025
The couple was found dead on February 26, along with one of their dogs. While detectives initially launched a criminal investigation due to the mysterious circumstances, officials ruled out external trauma and carbon monoxide poisoning.