Gene Hackman's Wife Researched Symptoms Days Before Her Death

In a tragic and surprising turn of events, recently released records reveal that Gene Hackman‘s wife, Betsy Arakawa may have been searching for answers about her medical symptoms just days before she passed away. The documents, which include emails and internet searches, point to a couple concerned with health issues in the days leading up to their deaths.

Authorities confirmed that Arakawa died of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare disease spread by rodent droppings. Hackman, 95, is believed to have passed away roughly a week later, reportedly due to heart disease complicated by Alzheimer’s. Their partially mummified remains were discovered in their Santa Fe home on February 26, after staff members raised the alarm.

Gene Hackman’s wife’s death raises medical concerns

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Computer activity from Hackman’s household showed that his wife had been searching online for symptoms related to COVID-19, flu-like illnesses, and breathing difficulties. These searches occurred between February 8 and the morning of February 12, just days before her death. One search questioned whether COVID-19 could cause dizziness or nosebleeds.

In an email to her massage therapist, Arakawa mentioned that Hackman had woken up with cold or flu symptoms on February 11. Though he tested negative for COVID-19, she canceled her appointment out of an abundance of caution. These details showed a glimpse into what the couple grappled with privately before their sudden passing.

Public records shed light on Betty Arakawa and Gene Hackman’s final days

Gene Hackma's wife — GENE HACKMAN at the 60th Annual Golden Globe Awards at the Beverly Hills Hilton. 19JAN2003. Paul Smith / Featureflash

The court recently ordered the release of hours of footage, photos, and detailed reports related to their deaths, while blocking any depictions of the couple’s remains to protect the family’s privacy. Hackman’s family had initially sought to keep the documents sealed to avoid public scrutiny.

Authorities say more records, including dashboard camera footage and possibly 911 call transcripts, may be released in the coming weeks. For now, the newly uncovered evidence paints a somber picture of a couple quietly confronting health fears, unaware of the severity of what was to come.