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Hollywood legend Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 63, were both found dead inside their New Mexico residence on February 26. Authorities confirmed that Arakawa succumbed to Hantavirus a week before Hackman passed away.

Hantavirus: A Deadly Infection

Medical experts have highlighted the severity of Hantavirus, noting that its mortality rate ranges from "38% to 50% in the Southwest." The disease, transmitted to humans through contact with infected rodents, can cause fatal respiratory illness known as hantavirus pulmonary syndrome.

https://usaherald.com/suspicious-death-investigation-gene-hackman-and-wife-found-dead-in-santa-fe-home/

Press Conference Reveals Startling Details

On March 7, Sheriff Adan Mendoza of Santa Fe, alongside representatives from the state medical investigator’s office, the health department, and local fire officials, provided further insights into the tragic event. Chief Medical Investigator Dr. Heather Jarrell confirmed there had been "no communication" from Arakawa following February 11.

Dr. Jarrell revealed that Hackman passed away on February 18 due to cardiovascular disease, with "advanced" Alzheimer’s disease listed as a "significant factor."

 Data from his pacemaker indicated an "abnormal heart rhythm," with the last recorded activity occurring on February 18. This suggests that Hackman lived for seven days in their $4 million home with his deceased wife.

No Signs of Foul Play

Arakawa was confirmed to have died on February 11 from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome.

 Dr. Jarrell emphasized that "the manner of death is natural. There were no findings of trauma internally or externally." Additionally, no other diseases were present.

Authorities ruled out other potential causes of death. Dr. Jarrell noted that Hackman did not contract Hantavirus and was not dehydrated. 

Medication found in the home was identified as thyroid medication, which was being "taken as prescribed."

Sheriff Mendoza added that the home tested "negative for carbon monoxide," with a minor gas leak in the kitchen deemed "insignificant."

Disturbing Discovery and Investigation

A search warrant from the Santa Fe Sheriff’s Department described Arakawa’s body as showing signs of "mummification" and "bloating," indicating that she had been deceased for some time before authorities arrived.

 She was found in a bathroom, while Hackman’s body was located in a room off the kitchen. The couple's dog was also found dead in a closet about "10 to 15 feet" away from Arakawa.