Gene Hackman's Secret Mansion: Hantavirus and Tragic Finds!

Gene Hackman's Secret Mansion: Hantavirus and Tragic Finds!

Around two months after the Oscar-winning actor's death Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa Santa Fe police have released new details about the circumstances surrounding her death. As part of their investigation, video and photos from the couple's villa were released, which contributed to the investigation into the condition of the property and the circumstances of their deaths.

When they arrived, the officers discovered chaos in the spacious villa. Signs of significant rodent infestation were visible in several outbuildings and garages. In particular, Betsy Arakawa's body was found in the bathroom with her dog sitting sadly next to her. According to reports, the room was overflowing with cosmetics, laundry and trash. Two of the couple's three dogs survived the situation, while the dog "Zinna" was locked in a dog crate and possibly died of hunger and thirst.

Hantavirus infection as a cause of death

Betsy Arakawa died of a hantavirus infection, official sources in New Mexico confirmed. This infection is transmitted through contact with rodents or their urine and feces and is not contagious between humans. Initial symptoms are often flu-like and include fatigue, fever and body aches. Serious illnesses can occur with this Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome which can lead to serious lung diseases. The CDC has been monitoring the viral disease since a 1993 outbreak in the Four Corners region.

Gene Hackman outlived his wife by a week before dying of heart failure, likely related to his dementia. The actor suffered from Alzheimer's disease and his last heartbeat was recorded by his pacemaker on February 18.

Investigations and other questions

The investigation showed that the property was considered a “breeding ground” for the hantavirus. Over the past few decades, a total of 864 hantavirus cases have been documented in the United States, with New Mexico having the highest number with 122 cases. There have been 52 hantavirus-related deaths in this state between 1975 and 2023. Samples from Betsy Arakawa's case were made available to the CDC for study to learn more about the specific strain of the virus and to test for pathology.

The dangers of hantavirus should not be underestimated: the mortality rate for hantavirus pulmonary syndrome varies between 20% and 50%. Health experts recommend minimizing contact with rodents and their feces by wearing protective gloves and respirators when cleaning contaminated areas.

Betsy Arakawa's death reopens the discussion about the potential health risks of rodent infestations and is a reminder of the importance of preventive measures in such cases. The couple's tragedies also highlight the often-overlooked dangers that can come from diseases like hantavirus, which are spread through simple contact with the environment.