Gene Hackman’s final days marked by isolation: ‘Slowing down and reclusive’

The actor was likely alone in his house for days, disoriented and too frail to seek help, after death of wife Betsy Arakawa

Actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, who were found dead last month in Santa Fe, New Mexico, were rarely apart from each other, and it’s that closeness that may have led to the circumstances of their deaths.

Arakawa had become Hackman’s caregiver in his later years when he developed Alzheimer’s disease and became incapable of carrying out even the simplest of tasks. She ran the household errands, made sure he remained active and protected him from illnesses.

Topics

Gene Hackman, Betsy Arakawa died of natural causes days apart, officials say

Officials have revealed a tragic timeline for how legendary actor Gene Hackman spent his final days. Both Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa died of natural causes, with her dying days before him ...
CBS News - 1d
Gene Hackman died of natural causes days after wife died of rare respiratory virus

Cause of Betsy Arakawa’s death was hantavirus pulmonary syndrome while Hackman died of heart disease, with advanced Alzheimer’s disease contributing. The actor Gene Hackman died of natural causes ...
The Guardian - 1d
Gene Hackman Lost His Wife and Caregiver, and Spent 7 Days Alone

The exact details may never be known, but Mr. Hackman, 95 with advanced Alzheimer’s, was alone for about a week after his wife and sole caregiver died.
The New York Times - 22h
What Is Hantavirus, the Disease That Killed Gene Hackman’s Wife?

Ms. Arakawa, the wife of the actor Gene Hackman, died from the effects of a disease often caused by contact with droppings from infected rodents.
The New York Times - 1d
Investigation advances into Gene Hackman's mysterious death, with update by New Mexico authorities

Authorities are preparing to reveal more information about the investigation into the deaths of actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa
ABC News - 2d
Gene Hackman died of heart disease, his wife died of hantavirus about 1 week prior, authorities say

Authorities have revealed that actor Gene Hackman died of heart disease and showed severe signs of Alzheimer’s disease a full week after his wife died of hantavirus in their home
ABC News - 1d
How to Care for a Loved One With Dementia: 5 Expert Tips

Gene Hackman was cared for by his wife in his final years. Her unexpected death highlights the essential and challenging job of those who care for Alzheimer’s patients.
The New York Times - 22h
3/7: CBS Evening News

Gene Hackman died of natural causes days after wife died of hantavirus; How the "Syncopated Clock" song wormed its way into Americans' ears
CBS News - 23h
GB win three silvers on final day of European Indoors

Great Britain win three silvers on the final day of the European Athletics Indoor Championships to finish with seven medals.
BBC News - 1h