Further information has come to light, revealing the unfortunate circumstances surrounding the passing of Gene Hackman, a legendary actor with two Oscars to his name, and his accomplished pianist wife, Betsy Arakawa. The report reveals the unsettling discovery of numerous deceased rodents and their nests throughout the couple’s lavish $3.8 million residence in Santa Fe, where both were declared deceased on the 26th of February.
The New Mexico Department of Public Health made this unsettling report available, following a detailed environmental evaluation of the luxurious property, undertaken on March 5th, seven days after the tragic discovery of Hackman and Arakawa. The report revealed evidence of rodent droppings in three separate garages on the property, along with two casitas and three sheds.
Further to this, a living rodent, a deceased one, and a rodent nest were discovered within the three garages. However, according to the assessment report, the main residence of Hackman and Arakawa appeared to be clear of any sign of rodent infestation. Nevertheless, it was found that rodents had made their way into the eight other structures on the estate.
During the investigation, the health officials came across live traps in the outbuildings. They also sighted rodents in two of the vehicles located on the property. It is believed that Arakawa, aged 65, sadly passed away on the 12th of February, with the cause of death being identified as Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome – a rare disease transmitted primarily through rodents.
Arakawa’s body was found on a bathroom floor, near a counter strewn with several pills. Meanwhile, Hackman, age 95, passed away approximately a week after his wife. His last pacemaker activity points towards his death date being February 18th.
Hackman’s autopsy revealed advanced heart disease; evidence revealing past heart attacks and undergone surgeries were discovered. Additionally, advanced Alzheimer’s disease was identified as a contributing factor to his passing. His body was located in the mudroom, connected to the kitchen. Interestingly, Hackman tested negative for Hantavirus.
An in-depth environmental investigation of the home site was carried out to guarantee the safety of researchers, emergency responders, and family members who frequented the Santa Fe Summit home following the discovery of the Hantavirus. The state public health veterinarian of New Mexico confirmed that the risk of Hantavirus exposure in Hackman and Arakawa’s main living area was quite low.
Despite being somewhat uncommon, Hantavirus diagnosis are significant as 41% of occurrences have proven fatal in New Mexico. Based on data from the New Mexico Department of Health, from 2022 to 2024, there were 17 confirmed Hantavirus cases within the state’s borders.
In remembrance, Gene Hackman lead an esteemed career in the acting industry, recognized on two occasions with Academy Awards. His acting prowess was recognised with awards for ‘The French Connection’ in 1971 and ‘Unforgiven’ in 1992.
Hackman shared a bond of matrimony with Arakawa in 1991 and chose to hang up his acting boots in 2004. Together, they lived a life of retirement in the beautiful property located in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Exploring the financial value of their residence; the couple’s home was nothing short of opulence, valued at $3.8 million. While the main home was bereft of any rodent traces, the remaining structures of the estate told a different story.
The residence played host to 3 detached garages, 2 casitas, and 3 sheds – unfortunately, all of these were infiltrated by rodents. The investigative health officials found multiple evidences of such infestations, marking the severity of the situation.
Throughout their investigation, several live traps were discovered in the outbuildings, suggesting attempts had been made to control the rodent problem. Two vehicles on the property were also noted as showing signs of rodent activity.
Lastly, it is important to highlight the serious nature of Hantavirus. This rare but deadly disease clearly highlights the importance of maintaining environmental health within a dwelling. Especially in the context of New Mexico’s rodent problem, where Hackman and Arakawa’s tragedy raises questions about public health and safety.
In the final analysis, the passing of Hackman and Arakawa uncover both their private battle and a larger issue of Rodent control in New Mexico. While their chapter has unfortunately ended, their lives and the issues highlighted serve as a reminder and spark conversations about the interplay of environment, health, and disease.