The final autopsy report of Betsy Arakawa, wife of renowned actor Gene Hackman, has shed light on the circumstances surrounding her untimely death. The report, obtained by the Associated Press, confirmed that Arakawa succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) in mid-February at the age of 65. The autopsy further revealed that her lungs were heavily congested, indicating an advanced stage of the rodent-borne disease.
Arakawa, a classical pianist, had fluid accumulation in her chest and mild hardening of the blood vessels supplying her heart and body, according to the report. The autopsy also confirmed that she tested negative for COVID-19, influenza, alcohol, and intoxicating drugs. There were no signs of trauma, and her carbon monoxide levels were within the normal range.
HPS is a rare but potentially fatal viral illness transmitted to humans through the infected urine, droppings, or saliva of certain species of rats and mice. It can also be transmitted through a bite or scratch from these rodents. The symptoms of the virus, which include chills, fever, headache, muscle aches, weakness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, can escalate to coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness due to fluid filling the lungs. These symptoms bear a striking resemblance to those of COVID-19.
In the days leading up to her death, Arakawa had researched COVID-19 symptoms and ordered oxygen canisters. Authorities believe she passed away on February 12. The bodies of Arakawa, Hackman, and one of their dogs were found in different rooms of their cluttered New Mexico home on February 26. The bodies were partially mummified.
During the investigation, the New Mexico Department of Health discovered live rodent traps on the couple’s property. While the main dwelling was clean with no evidence of rodent activity, rodent feces were found in all three garages and both casitas. Three sheds on the property were also accessible to rodents.
Interestingly, Hackman, who is believed to have died on February 17 at the age of 95, tested negative for hantavirus. The cause of death for the legendary actor was hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, with advanced Alzheimer’s disease being a significant contributing factor. His final autopsy revealed that he had not eaten for an extended period before his death.