Public health officials found dead rodents, feces, and nests across eight buildings on the couple’s $4 million New Mexico estate. Betsy Arakawa’s cause of death was linked to a rodent-borne viruses
April 15, 2025: A shocking public health report has revealed that legendary actor Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa were living amid a severe rodent infestation at their $4 million property in New Mexico prior to their deaths.
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According to TMZ, an environmental inspection conducted by the New Mexico Department of Public Health in March discovered dead and alive rodents, nests, and droppings in multiple structures across the estate. These included two small homes, three garages, three sheds, and two vehicles. However, the couple’s main house showed no signs of infestation.
The report came just weeks after the couple were found dead in separate rooms on February 26 — Hackman near the kitchen, Arakawa in the bathroom.
Cause of Deaths: Rodent Virus and Heart Failure
An autopsy confirmed that Arakawa, 65, died from Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), a rare and often fatal respiratory illness transmitted through contact with infected rodent urine, droppings, or saliva. Officials found that rodent traps had been placed throughout the property, indicating the couple was likely aware of the problem.
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Hackman, 95, died from hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, and was also suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. His pacemaker had stopped functioning nine days before their bodies were discovered, leading authorities to suspect he may not have realized Arakawa had passed away days earlier, on February 12, while Hackman is believed to have died around February 18.
Longtime Love Ends in Tragedy
Hackman and Arakawa had been married since 1991 and were known to lead a private life together. The couple’s final days have shocked fans, especially with the revelation that environmental health hazards may have played a role in Arakawa’s death.
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