Authorities in New Mexico have confirmed the official cause behind the passing of Gene Hackman and his wife, shedding light on the circumstances surrounding their final days. According to Dr. Heather Jarrell, New Mexico’s Chief Medical Examiner, Hackman, 95, was found to have had advanced Alzheimer’s disease and severe heart disease.
At a press conference on Friday, Dr. Jarrell stated that medical findings suggest Hackman passed on February 18, 2025, and had been in declining health leading up to that point. The report further noted that there were indications the actor had not eaten for several days.
Gene Hackman at the Oscars – YouTube, Fox News
Hackman’s wife, Betsy Arakawa, is believed to have passed about a week earlier, with officials estimating the date to be February 11. New findings indicate that Arakawa succumbed to Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome, a rare illness spread primarily through rodent exposure. Hackman did not contract Hantavirus, according to test results.
Autopsy and Investigation Findings
A full autopsy and body scan revealed that Hackman had no external injuries and had suffered from long-term heart issues, including multiple past surgeries and evidence of prior cardiac events. His pacemaker reportedly stopped functioning on February 17, which aligns with the estimated timeline.
Arakawa, 64, was last seen alive on security camera footage entering their residential subdivision at 5:30 p.m. MT on February 11, after visiting a Santa Fe pharmacy and shopping at a local Sprouts Farmers Market. Investigators noted that numerous unopened emails on her computer after that date suggest she was not active beyond that evening.
Gene Hackman with President Ronald Reagan – Photo Credit, Series: Reagan White House Photographs, 1/20/1981 – 1/20/1989Collection: White House Photographic Collection, 1/20/1981 – 1/20/1989, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
The couple and one of their dogs were discovered on February 26, when maintenance workers conducting a welfare check entered their home and alerted authorities. Hackman was found in a mudroom near the kitchen, while Arakawa was in a bathroom with a space heater nearby. A bottle of medication and scattered pills were found on the bathroom counter.
Authorities confirmed that the medications at the scene were Diltiazem, Tylenol, and a thyroid prescription. The New Mexico Gas Company ruled out any gas leaks or environmental hazards, and no forced entry or foul play was detected.
Sheriff: Investigation Nearing Conclusion
Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza acknowledged that the investigation remains open, but stated that the majority of questions surrounding the case have now been answered now that the cause of Gene Hackman and his wife passing has been found.
“There are a few loose ends to tie up, but at this time, we do not believe there is any indication of outside interference,” Mendoza told reporters.
Gene Hackman and Christopher Reeves in Superman – YouTube, Fox News
While the case is still considered active, officials have not indicated any further developments beyond routine procedural steps.
A Final Goodbye to a Hollywood Icon
Gene Hackman’s passing marks the end of an era for Hollywood’s golden generation. With a career spanning six decades, the legendary actor earned two Academy Awards, with unforgettable performances in The French Connection (1971) and Unforgiven (1992).
His iconic portrayal of Lex Luthor in Superman (1978) and Superman II (1980) made him a household name, while films like The Royal Tenenbaums (2001), The Conversation (1974), The Poseidon Adventure (1972), and Mississippi Burning (1988) cemented his legacy as one of the most versatile actors of his time.
Gene Hackman as Lex Luthor in Superman – YouTube Flashback FM
Hackman officially retired from acting after Welcome to Mooseport (2004), choosing to live a quiet life in New Mexico with his wife. The couple, married since 1991, largely stayed out of the public eye in their later years.
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