More details emerge: Gene Hackman and wife, Betsy Arakawa, found dead in their New Mexico home

Damien Willis, Organ Mountain News

SANTA FE — Gene Hackman, the actor known for his roles in The French Connection, The Conversation, Hoosiers and Unforgiven, was found dead along with his wife, Betsy Arakawa, in their Santa Fe home on Feb. 26, 2025. Hackman, 95, died of heart disease exacerbated by advanced Alzheimer's disease, while Arakawa, 65, succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare respiratory illness transmitted by rodents, authorities said at a joint news conference March 7.

Discovery and investigation

The couple’s bodies were discovered by a caretaker after concerns arose due to a lack of communication. Hackman was found fully clothed in a mudroom near the front door, and Arakawa was located on a bathroom floor near a space heater. Their dog, Xena, was also found dead in a bathroom closet.

Authorities reported no signs of foul play, and initial autopsy results showed no external trauma.

Timeline of events

Investigators determined that Arakawa’s last known activities occurred on Feb. 11, including visits to Santa Fe businesses. Hackman’s pacemaker data indicated cardiac activity until Feb. 17, suggesting he may have been alive for nearly a week after his wife’s death.

Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza said Hackman’s Alzheimer's disease might have prevented him from understanding or responding to the situation.

Health and environmental assessments

Dr. Heather Jarrell, New Mexico’s chief medical investigator, confirmed that Arakawa tested positive for hantavirus, which can cause severe respiratory distress.

The New Mexico Department of Health conducted an environmental assessment of the property, finding a low risk of hantavirus exposure in the main residence but signs of rodent activity in other structures.

Hantavirus is a severe respiratory illness caused by the Sin Nombre virus, which is transmitted through contact with infected rodents or their urine, droppings or saliva. The virus can become airborne when disturbed, posing a risk of inhalation. There is no evidence of person-to-person transmission in the United States.

The New Mexico Department of Health reported that this was the first confirmed hantavirus case in the state this year. In recent years, New Mexico has recorded between three and seven cases annually.

Early symptoms of hantavirus infection resemble the flu or a stomach virus, with fever, muscle aches, chills, headache, nausea, vomiting and cough that can progress to severe respiratory distress. Symptoms typically appear within one to six weeks after exposure. There is no specific treatment for hantavirus, but early medical intervention can improve survival rates.

The primary carrier in New Mexico is the deer mouse, and most cases occur in homes, cabins or sheds where rodent activity is present. Health officials advise residents to take precautions such as sealing homes against rodents, disinfecting droppings with bleach, and avoiding sweeping or vacuuming areas with rodent activity.

For more information, residents can visit www.nmhealth.org or call the New Mexico Department of Health Helpline at 833-SWNURSE (833-796-8773).

Background on Gene Hackman

Eugene Allen Hackman was born Jan. 30, 1930, in San Bernardino, California. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps before pursuing a career in acting.

Hackman’s career spanned more than five decades, earning him two Academy Awards: Best Actor for The French Connection (1971) and Best Supporting Actor for Unforgiven (1992). He also received nominations for Bonnie and Clyde (1967), I Never Sang for My Father (1970) and Mississippi Burning (1988).

Hackman retired from acting in 2004, focusing on writing and painting in his later years.

Background on Betsy Arakawa

Betsy Machiko Arakawa was born Dec. 15, 1959, in Honolulu. A classical pianist, she performed with orchestras and pursued a career in music.

Arakawa met Hackman in the 1980s while working part-time at a fitness center in Los Angeles. The couple married in 1991 and later co-founded Pandora’s, a home furnishings store in Santa Fe.

Community reactions

Friends and neighbors described Hackman and Arakawa as a devoted couple who valued their privacy.

“They were one of the tightest couples I’ve ever seen,” said Barbara Lenihan, a close friend.

The couple was known for their contributions to local businesses and cultural events in Santa Fe.

Ongoing investigation

While initial findings have provided clarity on the causes of death, authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the couple’s passing.

Toxicology reports are pending, and environmental assessments aim to ensure the safety of the property for future occupants. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office has stated that there are no indications of foul play.

Legacy

Gene Hackman’s contributions to cinema have left a lasting impact, with performances that showcased his versatility as an actor. Betsy Arakawa’s dedication to the arts and her support of Hackman’s career were integral to their shared life.

Their passing has prompted reflections on their impact both in Hollywood and in the Santa Fe community they called home.

Damien Willis is founder and editor of Organ Mountain News. He can be reached at OrganMountainNews@gmail.com or on X at @damienwillis.