Fri Mar 07 21:00:00 UTC 2025: **Hollywood Icon Gene Hackman Dies at 95; Wife’s Death Linked to Hantavirus**
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — Actor Gene Hackman, renowned for his roles in films like “The French Connection” and “Unforgiven,” has died at the age of 95. His death, along with that of his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 65, was announced Friday by Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza at a joint press conference with state fire and health officials.
Hackman’s death was attributed to heart disease, with contributing factors including severe Alzheimer’s disease. Arakawa’s death was linked to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare but potentially fatal disease spread through contact with infected rodent droppings. An open prescription bottle and scattered pills were found near Arakawa’s body in their Santa Fe home, where both bodies were discovered on February 26. Sheriff Mendoza indicated that Hackman may have been deceased for several days prior to discovery.
Initial investigations ruled out foul play and carbon monoxide poisoning. Authorities are not releasing further details of the ongoing investigation. News of Hackman’s passing comes as a shock to Hollywood, following tributes paid to him at the recent Oscars ceremony. Hantavirus is typically associated with spring and summer months, often related to exposure to rodent droppings in poorly ventilated areas.
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