The final autopsy results for Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman revealed his long medical history, two months after he and his wife were found deceased in their home. Hackman, 95, had heart failure, kidney issues, and signs of Alzheimer’s, along with a bi-ventricular pacemaker. His death sheds light on his health struggles in later years.
Hit play for more!
**The Final Autopsy Results of Gene Hackman: A Reflection on a Beloved Icon**
Gene Hackman, the Oscar-winning actor renowned for his roles in classics such as “The French Connection” and “Unforgiven,” left an indelible mark on the film industry. His passing, alongside that of his wife, Betsy Arakawa, has left fans and the entertainment community in mourning. As the final autopsy results emerge, they reveal not only the medical challenges Hackman faced but also the tragic circumstances surrounding their deaths.
### A Life of Acclaimed Achievements
Born on January 30, 1930, Gene Hackman enjoyed a prolific career that spanned over five decades. His performances earned him two Academy Awards, a BAFTA, and numerous other accolades, solidifying his status as one of Hollywood’s greats. However, behind the accolades lay a complex personal life marked by health struggles that would ultimately contribute to his untimely passing.
### The Medical History of Gene Hackman
The autopsy report released by the Office of the Medical Investigator in New Mexico provides a detailed account of Hackman’s extensive medical history. It reveals that he had been battling congestive heart failure and severe chronic hypertensive changes in his kidneys. These conditions are often associated with aging and can lead to significant health complications.
Hackman had a ventricular pacemaker implanted in April 2019, a device designed to help regulate heart rhythms. This intervention indicates that he had been experiencing serious cardiovascular issues, which are not uncommon in individuals of his age. The report also noted neurodegenerative features consistent with Alzheimer’s disease, a condition that affects memory and cognitive function, further complicating his health status.
### Cardiovascular Complications
The autopsy findings highlighted several cardiovascular issues, including atherosclerotic disease and hypertensive changes. Atherosclerosis is a condition characterized by the buildup of plaque in the arteries, which can lead to heart attacks and strokes. Hackman had undergone procedures such as the placement of coronary artery stents and a bypass graft, as well as a previous aortic valve replacement, indicating a long history of heart-related ailments.
Despite these serious health challenges, Hackman tested negative for hantavirus, a rare but deadly disease transmitted through rodent urine, saliva, and feces. This finding is particularly significant given the circumstances surrounding his wife’s death.
### The Tragic Death of Betsy Arakawa
Betsy Arakawa, Hackman’s wife, was found deceased shortly before him, with police determining that she died around February 12, 2023. The autopsy revealed that she succumbed to respiratory symptoms caused by hantavirus. At just 65 years old, her passing was a devastating blow to Hackman, who was already grappling with his own health issues.
In the days leading up to her death, Arakawa had been researching medical conditions that presented symptoms similar to COVID-19 or the flu, as indicated by bookmarks found on her computer. This suggests that she was aware of her declining health and was seeking answers, a poignant reminder of the uncertainty that often accompanies illness.
### Gene Hackman’s Final Days
Following Arakawa’s death, Hackman is believed to have wandered around their home alone, struggling with the effects of advanced Alzheimer’s disease. The emotional toll of losing a lifelong partner can be profound, and for someone already facing cognitive decline, the impact would have been even more severe.
The autopsy report also noted trace amounts of acetone in Hackman’s system at the time of his death. This could be attributed to diabetic ketoacidosis, a condition that can occur when the body begins to break down fat for energy due to a lack of insulin. This finding underscores the complexity of Hackman’s health issues, as he navigated both physical and mental challenges in his final years.
### A Legacy Remembered
Gene Hackman’s passing marks the end of an era in Hollywood. His contributions to cinema have left a lasting legacy, and his performances continue to inspire new generations of actors and filmmakers. As fans reflect on his remarkable career, it is essential to remember the man behind the accolades—a person who faced significant health challenges with resilience and grace.
The circumstances surrounding his and Arakawa’s deaths serve as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing our loved ones. In an age where health issues can often be overlooked or misunderstood, Hackman’s story highlights the need for awareness and compassion for those battling chronic conditions.
### Conclusion
The final autopsy results for Gene Hackman reveal a life marked by both extraordinary achievements and profound personal challenges. As we remember this beloved actor, let us celebrate his contributions to the arts while also acknowledging the complexities of his health journey. In doing so, we honor not only his legacy but also the enduring love he shared with Betsy Arakawa, a partnership that faced the trials of life together until the very end.
As we bid farewell to Gene Hackman, we are reminded of the power of storytelling, both on and off the screen, and the impact one individual can have on the world
Distressing new detail about how Gene Hackman died in latest autopsy report
Gene Hackman spent days starving with hunger, confused and alone before dying at his New Mexico mansion, a disturbing new autopsy report has revealed.
The Oscar-winning actor was found dead aged 95 in his New Mexico home alongside Arakawa, 64, in February, with investigators concluding Arakawa died first after contracting a rare rat-borne disease Hantavirus.
For up to seven days after Arakawa died, Hackman – who suffered from Alzheimer’s disease – remained inside the home before he died from heart failure.
In his latest autopsy released on Sunday, first obtained by Fox News, it was found that Hackman died with acetone in his system, a sign of a ‘prolonged level of fasting.’
The grim finding shows that Hackman had no food for some time before he died, and due to his advanced cognitive deterioration, officials said the actor may not have ever realized his wife had died.
His autopsy noted that he had a ‘history of congestive heart failure’, was fitted with a ‘bi-ventricular pacemaker’ since April 2019, and suffered ‘neurodegenerative features consistent with Alzheimer’s Disease.’
At a press conference weeks after the couple were found, Dr. Heather Jarrell, Chief Medical Examiner for New Mexico said Alzheimer’s Disease and kidney failure were ‘significant contributing factors’ to Hackman’s death.
Jarrell said authorities believe the actor died on February 18, and Arakawa died on February 11 following a bout with ‘Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome.’
An autopsy report released two months after the deaths of actor Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa (pictured in 1994) reveals the actor likely starved in his final days after his wife passed away first
An autopsy eventually revealed that Arakawa died on February 11 from Hantavirus, a rare but fatal disease spread by rodents, while Hackman (seen in March 2024) died from a combination of heart disease and Alzheimer’s seven days later
The autopsy, from the Office of the Medical Investigator in New Mexico, noted that Hackman tested negative for the Hantavirus that killed his wife.
The documents added in their findings: ‘Autopsy showed severe atherosclerotic and hypertensive cardiovascular disease, with placement of coronary artery stents and a bypass graft, as well as a previous aortic valve replacement.
‘Remote myocardial infarctions were present involving the left ventricular free wall and the septum, which were significantly large.’
A report obtained by DailyMail.com indicated that Arakawa had bookmarks on her computer suggesting that she had been researching medical conditions with symptoms similar to Covid-19 or the flu prior to her death.
When news of the couple’s demise first broke, speculation fell on whether they fell victim to carbon monoxide poisoning, but the medical examiner noted that testing of carbon monoxide in the home was ‘in keeping with a normal range.’
A week after the bodies were discovered, the New Mexico Department of Public Health conducted a health assessment on the property.
The department concluded that dead rodents and their nests were found in ‘eight detached outbuildings’ on the Hackman property, making it a ‘breeding ground’ for the hantavirus.
The grim finding in Hackman’s autopsy shows he had no food for some time before he died, and due to his advanced cognitive deterioration, officials said the actor may not have ever realized his wife had died
Investigators believe Hackman wandered through the home for days as he suffered Alzheimer’s Disease, as his autopsy found he likely went without food in his final days
Medication was found strewn around the home when authorities arrived
The deadly hantavirus typically spreads through rodent urine and droppings that one may come into contact with when cleaning a basement or an attic.
There were droppings found in three garages, two casitas, and three sheds on the property.
Additionally, there was a live rodent, a dead rodent and a rodent nest found in three more garages on the property, according to the inspectors.
There were also two vehicles seen on the estate that had evidence of rodents, and they even found traps in the buildings as well, suggesting this had been an ongoing issue for the Hackmans.
Inside the home, medication was also found strewn throughout the property.
One of the couple’s beloved dogs was found dead in a cage after apparently becoming trapped and starving to death following their passing.
Bodycam footage of police arriving at the couple’s home showed the moment cops found their bodies and that of one of their dogs, which was trapped in a cage
Police photos taken in the home showed a collection of completed jigsaws stacked in a pile on top of a table, suggesting that the couple frequently worked on puzzles
A collection of heartbreaking handwritten notes found at the home have revealed the Hollywood legend’s love and devotion to his wife Betsy
The health assessment was conducted to assess whether first responders or others who were on the property were safe from the virus.
Cops who combed their home following the gruesome discovery shared bodycam footage which captured how the couple’s other heartbroken dog watched over Betsy’s lifeless body as it lay surrounded by clutter.
A series of heartbreaking notes were also found dotted around the house, each exchanged between the couple and showing their affection for one another until the end.
Photos of their adored German Shepherds also adorned tables and sideboards, with smiling pictures of the couple with their old pets dating back years.
