Gene Hackman Property Investigation Confirms Rodent Infestation in Outbuildings

New details reveal Betsy Arakawa researched symptoms before her hantavirus-related death, while Hackman succumbed to heart disease days later.

An environmental assessment confirmed significant rodent infestations in eight outbuildings on Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa’s Santa Fe property, with no signs of infestation in the main residence.
Betsy Arakawa, 65, died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare and often fatal disease contracted from rodent exposure, as confirmed by medical investigators.
Gene Hackman, 95, passed away days later from hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, with advanced Alzheimer’s disease as a contributing factor.
Investigators revealed Arakawa had been researching flu-like symptoms and COVID-19 concerns in the days leading up to her death, including contacting a medical concierge service.
The findings have drawn attention to the risks of rodent-borne diseases in rural environments, with public health officials emphasizing preventive measures and safety protocols.