Investigation Reveals Betsy Arakawa’s Last Internet Searches
Introductory Overview
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – A recent investigation report has shed light on the final days of Betsy Arakawa, wife of renowned actor Gene Hackman. Released by the authorities, the document examines her last email communications and internet searches, revealing that she was researching flu-like symptoms and breathing techniques prior to her untimely death in February.
Cause of Death
Arakawa, aged 65, succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare illness transmitted by rodents that often presents with flu-like symptoms, respiratory distress, headaches, and dizziness, as per investigators. Gene Hackman, aged 95, reportedly passed away shortly afterward from heart disease complicated by Alzheimer’s disease.
Significant Findings from the Report
The investigation report details that on February 8 and the morning of February 12, Arakawa conducted extensive searches online regarding COVID-19 symptoms. Her inquiries included whether COVID could lead to dizziness or nosebleeds, which reflects her concern for her health and that of her husband.
In a communication with her masseuse, Arakawa expressed that Hackman experienced cold-like symptoms on February 11. Despite testing negative for COVID-19, she decided to cancel her appointment for the following day “out of an abundance of caution.”
Her last recorded online search was on the morning of February 12, where she looked for healthcare providers in Santa Fe.
Investigations and Findings
Authorities evaluated the couple’s home, reviewing call records, voicemails, and security footage from local stores that Arakawa visited on February 11. The home inspection revealed no unusual activity or signs of forced entry, suggesting a sudden incident rather than a break-in.
Gene Hackman and wife Betsy Arakawa during the 60th Annual Golden Globe Awards. (Jeffrey Mayer/WireImage)
Context of the Investigation
The report’s publication comes after a court order mandated the unsealing of certain aspects of the couple’s case, with restrictions placed on any depictions of the deceased to protect their family’s privacy. The Hackman estate had previously sought to keep the records confidential.
Environmental Concerns
Environmental assessments conducted on the Hackman property uncovered rodent droppings in several outbuildings. However, none were found in the main living structure, indicating a potential source of the hantavirus contamination may have been external.
Discovery of the Couple
On February 26, 2025, maintenance workers discovered the deceased couple alongside their dog in their Santa Fe home. Gene Hackman was located in a mudroom, while Betsy Arakawa was found in a bathroom near a space heater, with scattered medication found nearby.
Future Developments
As the investigation continues, authorities plan to release more redacted footage from body cameras worn by responding deputies to provide further insights into the circumstances surrounding the couple’s deaths.
