Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa: Official Cause of Death Disclosed
The recent deaths of acclaimed actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, have prompted substantial investigation following their discovery in their Santa Fe, New Mexico home. Officials have now released the official autopsy results, shedding light on the causes of death.
Details from the Autopsy
According to the New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator, the autopsy indicated that Hackman had a “history of congestive heart failure” alongside severe chronic hypertension impacting his kidneys. Notably, he had undergone the placement of a bi-ventricular pacemaker in April 2019. Furthermore, the autopsy revealed neurodegenerative signs suggestive of advanced stage Alzheimer’s Disease.
- Cardiovascular Health: Documentation cited severe atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, previous placement of coronary artery stents, and an aortic valve replacement.
- Brain Examination: Findings indicated significant damage consistent with advanced Alzheimer’s.
- Testing Results: Hackman tested negative for Hantavirus, with carbon monoxide levels found well within normal parameters (less than 5% saturation).
The toxicology report revealed low levels of acetone—5.3 mg/dl—potentially indicating he had been fasting, as standard endogenous levels are typically up to 0.3 mg/dL.
Circumstances of Discovery
Hackman and Arakawa were found deceased on February 26 by maintenance workers, prompting a swift 911 call. Both were reported to have undergone decomposition, with visual signs such as bloating and mummification.
Initially, the deaths were categorized as suspicious due to the absence of external trauma. Consequently, a criminal investigation was undertaken by New Mexico authorities.
Betsy Arakawa’s Cause of Death
Authorities later determined that Betsy Arakawa succumbed to Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a serious condition transmitted from rodents to humans, characterized by flu-like symptoms. Chief Medical Investigator Dr. Heather Jarrell elaborated on the symptoms, including fever and muscle aches, which can lead to significant respiratory and cardiac complications.
Health Concerns Prior to Death
Investigators discovered that prior to her passing, Arakawa had extensively researched COVID-19 and flu-like symptoms, signaling an active concern for her and her husband’s health. This included an email on February 11 indicating her husband had taken a COVID test due to symptomatic concerns.
Conclusion
Gene Hackman, who was 95 years old at the time of his death, and his wife, aged 63, leave behind a legacy intertwined with their intertwined lives marked by love and art. The findings of their autopsies provide insight into their health struggles and the circumstances surrounding their passing.
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