In a shocking turn of events, the investigation into the deaths of Hollywood legend Gene Hackman, his wife Betsy Arakawa, and their dog has revealed a disturbing rat infestation on their property in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Newly released body cam footage and documents from the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office have shed light on the conditions of the couple’s home and the circumstances surrounding their tragic demise.
Authorities discovered the bodies of Hackman and Arakawa on February 18, two weeks after they were last seen alive. The preliminary findings from the medical examiner indicated that Arakawa died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare and potentially fatal disease transmitted by rodents. This revelation has taken on a grim significance as reports have emerged detailing the extent of the rodent problem at the Hackman residence. A recent investigation by the New Mexico Department of Health found rodent feces in multiple garages and sheds on the property, indicating a serious infestation.
The body cam footage shows deputies navigating through a cluttered home, with one of the couple’s dogs found alive, guarding Arakawa’s body. The initial confusion regarding the timeline of events has been clarified; Arakawa likely passed away on February 12, while Hackman succumbed to heart disease and Alzheimer’s six days later. The couple’s dog, who had undergone surgery, was found in a crate, appearing to have suffered from lack of food and water.
The investigation revealed that Arakawa had been experiencing flu-like symptoms prior to her death and had made multiple calls to a local health clinic for assistance. Despite her efforts to seek help, she did not mention any severe breathing issues or chest pain during her consultations, focusing instead on symptoms she believed were related to a common illness.
The circumstances surrounding their deaths have prompted discussions regarding the couple’s desire for privacy, particularly in light of previous encounters with fans and unwanted attention. The Hackmans were known for their reclusive lifestyle, which became even more pronounced in their later years. In court documents, Betsy Arakawa’s mother expressed a deep desire to grieve without the intrusion of media coverage, highlighting the family’s struggle to maintain privacy in the wake of such a public tragedy.
Despite the rare nature of hantavirus—only 156 cases reported in New Mexico over the past 50 years—its potential lethality is alarming, with over 40% of cases resulting in death. The community in Santa Fe has expressed sorrow over the loss of the couple, particularly Hackman, who was remembered fondly for his contributions to film and his respectful demeanor in public.
The investigation has raised questions about the future of the Hackman estate, particularly regarding the couple’s property and assets. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding their deaths, while the release of additional information, including body cam footage, has sparked debate about the balance between public interest and the family’s right to privacy.
As the community mourns the loss of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa, the investigation into the cause of their deaths continues to reveal the complex interplay of health risks posed by their living environment and the tragic circumstances that befell them.