Overview

• Gene Hackman, 95, died from heart disease exacerbated by Alzheimer’s, while his wife Betsy Arakawa, 65, succumbed to a Hantavirus infection, as confirmed by autopsy reports.
• Investigators uncovered severe neglect at the couple’s Santa Fe home, including rodent infestations linked to the rare virus that caused Arakawa's death.
• Police bodycam footage revealed a disordered home environment, personal belongings scattered throughout, and emotional scenes, including a dog guarding Arakawa’s body.
• Arakawa conducted online searches about flu-like symptoms and COVID-19 in the days before her death, providing insight into her health concerns and final actions.
• The couple has been privately buried in Santa Fe, with Hackman’s children attending the small ceremony, while some investigation files remain sealed to protect family privacy.