Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman has died of natural causes just a week after the passing of his wife, Betsy Arakawa, who succumbed to a rare virus, according to a medical investigator in New Mexico.

Hackman, 95, died at his Santa Fe home from coronary artery disease, with advanced Alzheimer’s disease cited as a contributing factor. His wife, Arakawa, 65, passed away in the same residence from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), a respiratory illness linked to rodent exposure. Authorities have ruled both deaths as natural causes.

Tragic Timeline of Events

Dr. Heather Jarrell of the New Mexico Medical Investigator’s Office stated that Arakawa likely passed away on February 11, while Hackman died on February 18.

“Given his advanced Alzheimer’s, it is quite possible that he was unaware his wife had passed,” said Dr. Jarrell.

Ms. Arakawa was last seen alive on February 11, visiting a grocery store, pharmacy, and pet store before returning home. Authorities confirmed that Hackman, who suffered from significant heart disease and chronic high blood pressure, had not eaten recently but showed no signs of dehydration.

Hantavirus Exposure and Investigation

At a press briefing, New Mexico Public Health Veterinarian Erin Phipps reassured the public that hantavirus infections are extremely rare. HPS spreads through rodent droppings, urine, or saliva, often through inhalation of contaminated dust. Since 1975, New Mexico has recorded 136 cases, with a 42% fatality rate.

While evidence of rodent activity was discovered in some buildings on the couple’s property, officials believe the risk inside their $3.8 million home was low. Hackman tested negative for hantavirus.

The couple’s bodies were discovered after neighborhood security performed a welfare check, spotting them through a window. Their remains were in advanced decomposition.

Scene Inside the Home

Authorities reported that Hackman’s body was found in a side room next to the kitchen, with a walking cane and sunglasses nearby. Arakawa was discovered in the bathroom, with scattered pills close to her.

Investigators also found thyroid and blood pressure medications in the home, along with Tylenol. However, due to privacy laws, they did not confirm who had been prescribed the drugs.

One of the couple’s three dogs was found dead inside a crate, while the other two survived. Officials have not yet determined the dog’s cause of death but confirmed that dogs do not contract hantavirus.

No Signs of Foul Play

An initial investigation found no forced entry or foul play at the residence. Tests ruled out carbon monoxide poisoning and gas leaks.

Hackman’s Legacy in Hollywood

Gene Hackman, a two-time Academy Award winner, was widely recognized for his powerful performances. He won Best Actor for The French Connection (1971) and Best Supporting Actor for Unforgiven (1992). His breakthrough came in the late 1960s with roles in Bonnie and Clyde (1967) and I Never Sang for My Father (1970), both of which earned him Oscar nominations.

His extensive filmography includes playing Lex Luthor in the Superman franchise of the 1970s and 1980s, as well as starring in Mississippi Burning (1988), Scarecrow (1973), and Young Frankenstein (1974).

Hackman retired from acting after his last film, Welcome to Mooseport (2004), and spent his later years enjoying a quieter life in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

He is survived by three adult children from his previous marriage.