New details have emerged regarding the tragic deaths of Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, revealing a disturbing rodent infestation at their Santa Fe home. According to a health report obtained by TMZ, the couple's property was found to be infested with dead rodents and nests, raising serious health concerns.
The New Mexico Department of Public Health conducted an environmental assessment of the couple's estate in March 2025, following the discovery of their bodies on February 26. Betsy Arakawa, 65, died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), a disease transmitted through contact with rodent urine and droppings. Feces were found in three garages, two casitas, and three sheds on the property, indicating a severe infestation.
During the assessment, officials discovered a live rodent and a dead rodent along with a nest in the garages. Furthermore, two vehicles belonging to the couple showed clear signs of rodent activity, with droppings and nests present. The ongoing nature of the infestation was suggested by the presence of live traps located in the outbuildings.
Betsy had contacted a medical concierge service on February 12, just days before her death. Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome affects the lungs, initially presenting flu-like symptoms before progressing to severe respiratory issues. Tragically, Betsy's body was found on the bathroom floor with a space heater placed near her head and an open prescription bottle on the counter, with pills scattered around.
Gene Hackman, 95, passed away a week later on February 18, due to heart disease complicated by advanced Alzheimer's disease. His body was discovered in the mudroom, and both bodies exhibited "obvious signs of death." The primary residence was ruled as low risk for hantavirus, as no signs of rodent activity were found inside the home.
The couple, married for 30 years, were discovered alongside their dog by a maintenance worker. The New Mexico Department of Public Health ensured that first responders and family members who had visited the property were safe from potential exposure to the virus.
In a poignant tribute during the Oscar memoriam speech at the 97th Academy Awards, actor Morgan Freeman expressed his sorrow over Hackman's passing. "Our community lost a giant. And I lost a dear friend...Gene Hackman," Freeman stated. "He received two Oscars. But more importantly, he won the hearts of film lovers all over the world. Gene always said I don't think about legacy, I hope people just remember me as someone who tried to do good work. And Gene...you will be remembered for that. And so much more."
The hantavirus, first recorded in South Korea in 1978, is rare but can be deadly. In the United States, fewer than 50 cases are reported annually, and the disease has a mortality rate of approximately 35%. Following Betsy Arakawa's death, three additional fatalities linked to hantavirus occurred in a small Californian town, although they were unrelated to her case.
Initial investigations into the couple's deaths considered carbon monoxide poisoning as a potential cause, especially after their dog was found dead in a separate area of the property. However, this theory was ultimately ruled out. Medical examiners confirmed that Betsy Arakawa died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, while Gene Hackman's death was attributed to heart disease exacerbated by Alzheimer's and kidney disease.
As details continue to unfold, the health department's assessments have raised critical awareness about the dangers of hantavirus and the potential health risks posed by rodent infestations. The investigation aimed to determine the risk to first responders and family members who had been present at the property following the couple's deaths.
In summary, the tragic deaths of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa highlight the severe health risks associated with rodent infestations, particularly the lethal hantavirus. The couple's legacy will live on in the hearts of many, as they are remembered not only for their contributions to the arts but also as a cautionary tale regarding the importance of maintaining a safe living environment.
