Overview

• Gene Hackman, a two-time Oscar-winning actor, died of hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, with Alzheimer's as a contributing factor.
• His wife, Betsy Arakawa, 65, passed away earlier from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare and often fatal illness transmitted by rodent droppings.
• The couple's bodies were found at their Santa Fe home on February 26, with Hackman likely passing around February 18 and Arakawa on February 11.
• An investigation ruled out foul play or carbon monoxide poisoning, initially suspected due to the unusual circumstances of their deaths.
• Hackman, a key figure of the New Hollywood era, retired in 2008 and was known for iconic roles in films such as 'French Connection' and 'Unforgiven.'