New details are emerging regarding the tragic deaths of actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, who were discovered deceased in their Santa Fe, New Mexico home in February. As the investigation continues, the timeline surrounding the couple’s final days has been altered, shedding light on the circumstances leading to this heartbreaking event. A special program titled Last Days of Gene Hackman is set to air on Tuesday, March 18, at 10 p.m. ET on ABC, offering further insights into this poignant story.
The timeline began on February 9, when Betsy Arakawa retrieved one of their three dogs from a veterinary hospital following a procedure. This dog was later found deceased in the couple's home, which has raised questions about the circumstances of their deaths, according to Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza.
On February 11, Arakawa visited a farmer's market, a CVS pharmacy, and a pet food store, returning to her gated community at 5:15 p.m. Initially, authorities believed that the 65-year-old Arakawa had passed away on this day. However, new findings indicate that her condition may have been deteriorating.
The following day, on February 12, investigators revealed that Arakawa had contacted Cloudberry Health, a concierge medical service, three times in the morning. Sheriff Mendoza stated that each call involved her speaking directly with a representative, suggesting she was seeking medical assistance. Dr. Josiah Child from Cloudberry Health noted that Arakawa had inquired about an esoteric treatment rather than emergency care, indicating that she did not display any immediate distress.
Despite no apparent signs of a health crisis at the time of her calls, it was later determined that Arakawa succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare but serious disease transmitted through rodent excretions. Dr. Heather Jarrell, chief medical investigator, explained that individuals infected with hantavirus typically experience symptoms for three to six days before entering a critical pulmonary phase, which can lead to rapid deterioration and, without medical intervention, death within 24 to 48 hours.
By February 18, Gene Hackman, aged 95, likely passed away, approximately one week after his wife's death. The Academy Award-winning actor's cause of death was attributed to cardiovascular disease, with Alzheimer's disease being a significant contributing factor. Data from Hackman's pacemaker indicated cardiac activity on February 17, followed by an abnormal rhythm on February 18, marking the last recorded instance of heart activity.
On February 26, the couple's bodies were discovered during a welfare check. Reports indicate that Hackman was found on the floor of the mudroom, while Arakawa was located in the bathroom, with a space heater nearby. Arakawa's body showed signs of decomposition, including mummification of her hands and feet. Tragically, one of their dogs was found dead in a crate close to Arakawa's body, reportedly due to dehydration and starvation, while two other dogs were discovered alive, suggesting they had access to a doggy door.
Hackman is survived by his son and two daughters, who expressed their profound sorrow in a statement, highlighting that he was cherished not only as an actor but as a father and grandfather. The couple's estate, valued at approximately $80 million, adds another layer of complexity to this already tragic situation. Hackman’s will left his estate to Arakawa, without naming his children, which could lead to legal implications following their deaths. According to legal expert Brian Buckmire, if Betsy passes away first, Hackman's will may become void, leading to potential disputes in probate court regarding the distribution of his estate.
As the investigation unfolds, the public and fans of Gene Hackman continue to mourn the loss of a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, while also seeking answers regarding the circumstances of both their deaths.
