Gene Hackman, wife found dead; causes revealed

The tragic deaths of Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa have been attributed to different health issues. Hackman, 95, died from hypertensive cardiovascular disease, while Arakawa, 65, succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, which is spread mainly by rodents. Authorities determined that Arakawa likely passed away around February 11, followed by Hackman's death approximately a week later. Their bodies were discovered on February 26 in their Santa Fe home, which had shown no signs of foul play or significant gas leaks, despite initial concerns about carbon monoxide. A deceased dog found at the scene was misidentified; it was a 12-year-old kelpie mix named Zinna, who had a strong bond with Arakawa. Investigations continue to clarify the circumstances surrounding their deaths and the condition of their surviving pets.