In a saddening development from Santa Fe, New Mexico, the celebrated actor Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa were recently found deceased in their home.
According to CNN, the dual tragedy struck when Arakawa succumbed to hantavirus, followed by Hackman’s death from heart complications and Alzheimer’s disease.
The couple, married since 1991, died within days of each other in late February. Betsy Arakawa, 65, initially passed away from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare but severe respiratory disease. Her last known activities included sending emails and visiting stores on February 11, as confirmed by Sheriff Adan Mendoza.
Shortly after Arakawa's untimely death, Gene Hackman, who was 95, succumbed to hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease on February 26. Doctors noted his advanced Alzheimer's disease as a major contributing factor. Hackman's pacemaker last detected him alive on February 18, indicating that he spent his last few days alone without his lifelong companion and caregiver.
Authorities discovered Hackman near the kitchen area of their home, with indications that he had not eaten recently. This detail highlights the dependency he had on Arakawa due to his debilitating Alzheimer's condition. Near Arakawa's body, thyroid medication was found but determined unrelated to her demise.
The couple’s devotion to each other was evident throughout their marriage. Friends and community members frequently commented on their mutual support and active lifestyle. Daniel Lenihan, a close friend, remarked on their health and vigor during their last sighting, "Last time we saw them, they were alive and well."
Barbara Lenihan, reflecting on the couple’s relationship, shared, "They were so delightful to be around. Probably never seen a couple that got along and enjoyed each other so much." This sentiment was echoed in the community’s perception of the couple who were known for their love of movies, literature, and particularly, their care for animals.
The couple’s dog, Zinna, was also found deceased, with starvation as a potential cause, adding another layer of sadness to the incident. No signs of trauma were evident on Hackman, Arakawa, or the dog, and all tested negative for COVID-19 and other viruses. Investigators are currently examining the couple's cell phones to further understand the sequence of events leading to their deaths.
According to Dr. Heather Jarrell, it is "reasonable to conclude that Ms. Arakawa passed away first." This aligns with the timeline deduced from the medical and activity records observed from Hackman's health monitoring devices.
Daniel Lenihan remembered Hackman as an "interesting, funny, very intelligent man," and Barbara described Arakawa as "clever and witty and fun." Such descriptions highlight the void their passing will leave in their community and among their acquaintances.
Despite the challenges posed by Hackman's Alzheimer's, the couple maintained a lively routine supported significantly by Arakawa’s caring role. Hackman stayed active, engaging in cycling and participating in yoga classes via Zoom. These activities underscored not only his resilience but also Arakawa’s dedication to his health and well-being.
Dr. Jonathan Reiner noted the critical role of caregivers in the life of Alzheimer's patients, stating, “As people advance in the sequence of their Alzheimer’s disease, they become more and more reliant on a caregiver.” This case tragically underscores the vulnerability of individuals like Hackman in the absence of their primary support.
Barbara Lenihan summed up their love saying, “Betsy was a wonderful wife. They were very close, and she was a good cook and took good care of him.” The couple's travels and the life they shared resonated deeply within their community sphere, often reflecting their wholesome and engaged approach to life.
Sheriff Adan Mendoza indicated that most questions regarding the couple's last days had been answered through the ongoing investigations. Yet, the community and their friends continue to seek closure and comfort in remembering Hackman and Arakawa's vibrant lives and contributions.
