Overview

• Authorities confirmed Betsy Arakawa died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare rodent-borne disease, while Gene Hackman succumbed to heart disease with Alzheimer’s complications days later.
• A New Mexico Department of Health report revealed rodent infestations in eight outbuildings on their Santa Fe property, though the main house showed no signs of rodent activity.
• Investigators uncovered Arakawa’s internet searches for flu-like and COVID-19 symptoms in the days leading up to her death, including inquiries about dizziness and nosebleeds.
• The couple’s bodies, discovered on February 26, were found in separate areas of their home, with no evidence of forced entry or gas leaks according to released police footage.
• The investigation has raised concerns about hantavirus risks linked to rodent exposure, particularly in rural environments, as well as privacy issues surrounding the release of case details.