Hollywood Legend Gene Hackman and Wife Tragic End in Santa Fe

In late February 2025, the film industry mourned the loss of Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 65, who were found deceased in their Santa Fe, New Mexico, residence. The couple's deaths have prompted discussions on public health risks and the challenges faced by elderly individuals living independently.

On February 26, maintenance workers, concerned by the couple's unresponsiveness, contacted authorities. Deputies discovered Hackman in the mudroom and Arakawa in a bathroom, both showing signs of decomposition. Investigations revealed that Arakawa likely died around February 11 from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare disease transmitted through rodent droppings. Hackman, who had advanced Alzheimer's disease, is believed to have died approximately a week later, around February 18, from heart disease. Authorities noted no signs of forced entry or foul play.

Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome is a severe respiratory disease caused by infection with hantaviruses, which are transmitted to humans through contact with infected rodent urine, droppings, or saliva. The New Mexico Department of Health reported two confirmed cases of hantavirus in Santa Fe County in 2025, including Arakawa's. The disease has a high mortality rate, and early symptoms often resemble those of the flu, making early detection challenging.

Gene Hackman was an acclaimed actor with a career spanning several decades, winning Academy Awards for his roles in "The French Connection" and "Unforgiven." He retired from acting in the early 2000s and resided in Santa Fe with Arakawa. Betsy Arakawa was a classical pianist and active in Santa Fe's business community. The couple married in 1991 and lived together in their Santa Fe home.

The circumstances surrounding their deaths underscore the challenges faced by elderly individuals with cognitive impairments, particularly in recognizing and responding to emergencies. Dr. Heather Jarrell, Chief Medical Investigator, noted, "He was in a very poor state of health. He had significant heart disease, and I think ultimately that is what resulted in his death." She added, "It's quite possible he was not aware she was deceased," referring to Hackman's advanced Alzheimer's disease.

Arakawa's death highlights the dangers of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, emphasizing the need for public awareness about rodent infestations and the associated health risks. The New Mexico Department of Health advises residents to take precautions, such as sealing up holes and gaps in homes, cleaning up potential rodent food sources, and using traps to reduce rodent populations.

The tragic deaths of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa serve as a poignant reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by the elderly and the importance of community support and vigilance in preventing such tragedies.