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Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa: A Tragic End to a Private Life

Retired actor Gene Hackman died of heart disease shortly after his wife Betsy Arakawa succumbed to hantavirus, marking a heartbreaking end for the couple.

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The deaths of actor Gene Hackman, aged 95, and his wife Betsy Arakawa, aged 65, have been investigated by New Mexico authorities. Hackman passed away from heart disease shortly after Arakawa died of hantavirus. An autopsy revealed Arakawa likely died first on February 11, with Hackman potentially unaware of her passing due to advanced Alzheimer’s disease. Their bodies were discovered a week later, raising questions about their secluded life and health care. Friends described their relationship as deeply loving and supportive, underscoring the tragedy of their simultaneous deaths.

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Gene Hackman died of heart disease with Alzheimer's disease as a contributing factor, while Betsy Arakawa died of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome.

It is unlikely that Gene Hackman was aware of his wife's passing due to his advanced Alzheimer's disease.

Their bodies were discovered by a maintenance worker on February 26 in their Santa Fe home.

Hantavirus is a rare but deadly disease transmitted through contact with infected rodent droppings, urine, or saliva.

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