15.04.2025 17:00
The details of the investigation launched after Hollywood star Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa were found dead in their property in New Mexico, in the southwestern United States, in February have become clearer. Experts pointed to a virus spread by rat droppings as the cause of Arakawa's death.
Legendary Hollywood actor Gene Hackman (95) and his wife of 30 years, Betsy Arakawa (65), were found dead in their home in New Mexico last February. Details regarding the causes of the couple's deaths have emerged.
DEADLY DISEASE FROM RATS
The bodies of Hackman and Arakawa were discovered on February 26 after security personnel received a tip-off and saw through the window. Initially, there was a suspicion of carbon monoxide poisoning, but the fact that the couple's dog was also found dead elsewhere on the property disproved this possibility. Following investigations by public health teams, it was determined that Arakawa died around February 12 from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. This rare and deadly disease is caused by hantavirus, which is spread through rat droppings and urine.
HACKMAN'S HEALTH CONDITION LED TO HIS DEATH
It was found that Hackman died a few days after Arakawa, on February 18, due to a serious heart condition complicated by Alzheimer's and kidney disease. Researchers indicated that Hackman may not have been aware of his wife's death due to his health issues.
RAT NESTS FOUND ON THE PROPERTY
The New Mexico Department of Public Health conducted a health assessment of the property a week after the bodies were found. According to the report, dead rats and nests were found in eight different structures on the property. Health officials stated that this situation may have contributed to the spread of hantavirus.