Gene Hackman and wife Betsy Arakawa's causes of death revealed
What's the story
The causes of death for Hollywood actor Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife Betsy Arakawa, 65, have finally been revealed by the New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator.
Arakawa died of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rodent-borne disease, on February 11.
A week later, Hackman passed away due to "heart disease with advanced Alzheimer's a significant contributory factor."
The couple was found dead in their Santa Fe home on February 26.
Investigation update
Hackman likely unaware of wife's death, says investigator
Heather Jarrell, the chief medical investigator, told the media that because of Hackman's advanced Alzheimer's disease, he was likely "not aware" of his wife's death.
Autopsy results initially suggested that both people tested negative for carbon monoxide.
Their dog, Zinna, was also found dead in a crate at their home, leading to speculation that starvation may have contributed to its death.
The couple's other two dogs survived.
Ongoing inquiry
Investigation continues into circumstances surrounding couple's deaths
Despite having determined the cause of death, the investigation remains open until all final "loopholes" are tied up.
This includes the necropsy results to find out how Zinna died and information from the couple's cell phones.
Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza said, "I think we're pretty close to the timeline, and with the information that [the medical investigator] provided."
Meanwhile, the Centers for Disease Control has been apprised of Arakawa's fatal hantavirus case.
Timeline
Investigation provided clarity on couple's final days
The last time Arakawa was seen alive was on February 11, when she visited several places in Santa Fe.
Her car was seen on video surveillance entering their private gated community around 5:30pm.
Emails from the afternoon and evening of that day were never answered, suggesting she may have died shortly thereafter.
Hackman's pacemaker documented atrial fibrillation on February 18 and it stopped recording a heartbeat thereafter.
Hantavirus explained
Hantavirus and its transmission
Hantavirus is mainly transmitted to humans when they come in contact with rodent urine, saliva, or feces.
Inhaling dust contaminated with these substances can also infect the person.
The virus is carried by several rodents, especially deer mice, and can cause severe diseases in humans such as Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) and Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS).
HPS symptoms often include fever, muscle aches, fatigue, and dizziness.
Career and tribute
Remembering Hackman's illustrious career and private life
Hackman, a two-time Oscar winner, was celebrated at this year's Oscars ceremony. His last on-screen appearance was in 2004's Welcome to Mooseport.
He was remembered for his roles in films like The French Connection, Hoosiers, and Superman.
Despite his fame, Hackman led a secluded life in New Mexico with Arakawa, whom he married in 1991.