Gene Hackman, Betsy Arakawa Deaths

Actor Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife Betsy Arakawa, 65, were found dead at their Santa Fe, Mexico estate on February 26, 2025. Betsy Arakawa died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare disease contracted from rodent droppings, urine, or saliva. Investigations by the United States — New Mexico Department of Health revealed a significant rodent infestation in the outbuildings of their property, with dead rats, nests, and droppings found. Gene Hackman died several days later, around February 18, from complications related to hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, exacerbated by advanced Alzheimer's disease. Officials believe Gene Hackman may have been deceased for a week before discovery, and Betsy Arakawa passed away earlier, around February 11. The event highlights the dangers of hantavirus, which has a 41% fatality rate in Mexico, though it is rare in the US.