Tue Mar 11 07:48:44 UTC 2025: ## Hollywood Legend Gene Hackman Dies at 95; Wife’s Death Preceded His
**Santa Fe, NM** – Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman died of natural causes at age 95, a week after the death of his wife, Betsy Hackman, 65, the New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator announced Friday. The deaths, which occurred at their Santa Fe home on February 26th, had been shrouded in mystery until the release of autopsy results.
The medical examiner, Heather Jarrell, revealed that Mr. Hackman died from hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, with Alzheimer’s disease listed as a significant contributing factor. Ms. Hackman’s cause of death was determined to be hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, also a natural cause. Both deaths were ruled as such, with no signs of trauma or carbon monoxide poisoning, contrary to earlier speculation.
Data from Mr. Hackman’s pacemaker indicated his last activity was over a week before their bodies were discovered, suggesting he died around February 18th. Ms. Hackman’s death is estimated to have occurred around February 11th. First responders found Ms. Hackman’s body in the bathroom, with scattered pills nearby. Mr. Hackman’s body was found in another room, fully clothed, suggesting a sudden fall. Given Mr. Hackman’s advanced Alzheimer’s, investigators believe he may have been unaware of his wife’s death. A family spokesperson had previously denied reports of his Alzheimer’s. A dog was also found dead in the bathroom; two other dogs were unharmed.
The investigation was complicated by the couple’s secluded lifestyle and preference for privacy. Hackman, a celebrated actor known for intense performances, won two Academy Awards: Best Actor for “The French Connection” (1971) and Best Supporting Actor for “Unforgiven” (1992). His death marks the end of an era for Hollywood.
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