Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, lived a peaceful life in their Santa Fe home, far from Hollywood’s attention. However, their unexpected deaths in February 2025 deeply shocked the community. Arakawa was last seen running errands on February 11, but concerns arose when she failed to pick up an order from her local veterinary hospital. Authorities later confirmed she had died from Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome, a rare disease spread by rodents. The virus likely caused her to collapse at home, where she passed away alone, with no one there to assist her.

Hackman, who suffered from advanced Alzheimer’s, remained in the house unaware of his wife’s passing. Investigators believe he may not have realized she was gone or lacked the ability to seek help. Data from his pacemaker suggested he died on February 18. During those days, he may have wandered through the house, consuming whatever food and water he could find. The couple’s secluded residence meant no one noticed anything unusual until a maintenance worker arrived and discovered their bodies, bringing the heartbreaking tragedy to light.