Authorities Continue Investigation into Gene and Betsy Hackman’s Deaths Despite Cause of Death Confirmation
The causes of death for Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa Hackman, were confirmed over a week after their bodies were discovered in their Santa Fe, New Mexico, home on February 26. However, authorities say their investigation is ongoing to resolve remaining “loopholes.”
Dr. Heather Jarrell, New Mexico’s chief medical investigator, announced on March 7 that Betsy, 65, died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare but potentially fatal virus transmitted through rodent droppings. Gene, 95, likely passed away a week later from severe heart disease, high blood pressure, and advanced Alzheimer’s disease.
Ongoing Investigation
Despite these findings, Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza stated in a press conference that investigators are still reviewing key details. Authorities plan to examine the couple’s cellphones and the necropsy results of their dog, Zinna, to gain further clarity.
“But I think we’re pretty close to finalizing the timeline with the information Dr. Jarrell provided,” Mendoza said.
The Discovery
The Hackmans were found in an advanced state of decomposition inside their home. A pest control worker, concerned after receiving no response from the couple, alerted a neighborhood security officer, who then called 911 upon spotting the bodies through a window.
Gene was found in a mudroom, while Betsy was discovered collapsed in a bathroom near a space heater and scattered pills, according to a search warrant affidavit. Their dog, Zinna, was found deceased in a crate inside a closet, though two other dogs on the property were found alive.
Establishing a Timeline
Authorities determined that Betsy’s last known communication was an email sent on February 11. The last recorded activity on Gene’s pacemaker was on February 17, suggesting he likely passed the following day. Though he had no food in his stomach, he showed no signs of dehydration.
Dr. Jarrell concluded, “It is reasonable to determine that Ms. Hackman passed first.”
Understanding Hantavirus
Betsy’s death was caused by hantavirus, a flu-like virus that spreads through exposure to rodent urine, saliva, and droppings. Erin Phipps, a veterinarian with the New Mexico Health Department, noted that while cases are rare, hantavirus is fatal in up to 42% of cases in New Mexico. Fewer than 10 cases have been reported in the state over the past five years.
Authorities have ruled out foul play but will continue investigating to close any remaining gaps in the case.