Gene Hackman and Wife's Causes of Death Confirmed as Natural
The actor died from heart disease, while his wife succumbed to hantavirus, according to a New Mexico medical examiner.
- Gene Hackman, 95, passed away from cardiovascular disease, with advanced Alzheimer's contributing to his death.
- His wife, Betsy Arakawa, 65, died a week earlier from hantavirus, a rare disease transmitted by rodent droppings.
- Their bodies were discovered on February 26, though Hackman likely died around February 18 and Arakawa on February 11.
- Investigators ruled out foul play, carbon monoxide poisoning, or medication as factors in their deaths.
- The couple led a reclusive life in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where their deaths were determined to be unrelated but natural.