SANTA FE, N.M. — Authorities announced on Friday that the actor’s death was due to heart disease and that he exhibited severe signs of Alzheimer’s disease. This information comes a week after his wife passed away from hantavirus in their residence.
Following the discovery of the bodies on February 26th, investigators initially ruled out any possibility of foul play. Initial tests for carbon monoxide poisoning came back negative.
According to Chief Medical Investigator Dr. Heather Jarrell, it’s possible Hackman was unaware that his wife had died in their home.
Dr. Jarrell stated that Mr. Hackman showed signs of advanced Alzheimer’s disease and was in very poor health. She added that he had significant heart disease, which she believes ultimately caused his death.
Hackman, aged 95, was discovered in the entryway of his home. His death was attributed to heart disease, with Alzheimer’s disease as a contributing factor.
Betsy Arakawa, aged 65, was found with an open prescription bottle and pills scattered on the bathroom counter. Authorities have determined that her death was caused by hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare and potentially fatal disease transmitted through infected rodent droppings.
The disease is typically reported during the spring and summer months, often resulting from exposures when individuals are near mouse droppings in homes, sheds, or poorly ventilated spaces.
Jarrell stated that the rate at which Arakawa died is currently unknown.
Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza, along with state fire and health officials, made the announcement during a press conference.
Earlier, investigators collected personal belongings from the couple’s home, including a monthly planner and two cellphones.
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