Gene Hackman dies after wife's hantavirus infection

In March 2025, tragedy struck in Santa Fe, New Mexico, when actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were found deceased in their home under grim circumstances. Their beloved pet dog, a kelpie mix named Zinna, was also discovered dead, likely due to dehydration and starvation, as indicated by an examination conducted by the Santa Fe County animal control agency. The dog was found in a crate in a bathroom closet, near Betsy Arakawa's body, while two other dogs in the household survived. The examination revealed signs of severe decomposition and partial mummification; however, no infectious disease, trauma, or poisoning were linked to the dog’s death. Zinna's stomach was mostly empty, containing small amounts of hair and bile, suggesting that the dog had not eaten for quite some time. Authorities confirmed that Betsy Arakawa had succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a serious disease transmitted through rodent droppings, urine, or saliva, about a week prior to Gene Hackman's passing. Gene Hackman, who had been in the advanced stages of Alzheimer's disease, was reported to be unaware of his wife's death. Following Betsy's demise, Hackman, himself suffering from health issues, faced a rapid deterioration in his condition and ultimately died from heart disease. Their bodies, alongside the dog's, showed signs of decomposition consistent with the dry climate of Santa Fe, which is located at a high elevation of nearly 7,200 feet. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office is still investigating the circumstances surrounding their deaths, focusing on timelines and details gathered from cellphones collected at their home. The case remains active as authorities attempt to piece together the final days of the couple's lives, while a representative for their estate has sought to block the public release of any autopsy results and investigative reports, particularly any photographs or videos related to their deaths. Gene Hackman, an Oscar-winning actor known for his roles in iconic films, lived a largely private life with Betsy after relocating to Santa Fe decades earlier. The couple's close bond was evident, yet the tragedy of their demise has led to increased scrutiny over the circumstances surrounding their passing.