Two months after the shocking discovery of the lifeless bodies of actor Gene Hackman and his wife, classical pianist Betsy Arakawa, the final autopsy report has been released, shedding light on the causes and circumstances of their deaths.
Gene Hackman, 95, retired from the film industry since 2004, died from hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, according to the report obtained by Entertainment Weekly. Alzheimer’s disease, which he had been suffering from for years, was noted as a significant factor contributing to his death. Meanwhile, Arakawa, 65, the actor’s main caregiver, died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare condition caused by exposure to rodent droppings that attacks the lungs.
Both deaths were classified as natural by the forensic examiners. However, the details revealed in the report are unsettling and reflect a slow physical decline of Hackman. The actor had a history of congestive heart failure, kidney damage, and neurodegenerative signs typical of Alzheimer’s.
Furthermore, a toxicological report revealed the presence of acetone in his body, indicating a prolonged fasting before his death, probably due to his mental deterioration and lack of care after his wife’s death.
The bodies of the couple were found on February 26 in their residence in Santa Fe, along with one of their three dogs. Hackman was found in the laundry room, next to a cane and a pair of sunglasses. According to an officer involved in the investigation, the actor had apparently suffered a sudden fall. His pacemaker stopped registering activity on February 17, suggesting that he died around that date.
Arakawa’s body was found in the bathroom, surrounded by several medications, including a thyroid treatment, Tylenol, and diltiazem, a medication used to treat chest pain and high blood pressure. It is estimated that his death occurred approximately a week before Hackman’s, which could explain the physical neglect in which the actor was found.