Rat Nests and Deceased Rodents Discovered on Gene Hackman’s Property Following Wife’s Hantavirus-Related Death | US News
Rodent nests and deceased rodents were found on Gene Hackman’s estate following the death of his wife, Betsy Arakawa, from hantavirus—a virus that can be contracted from these animals.
The remains of Hackman, 95, and Arakawa, 65, were discovered on February 26 in separate rooms of their home in Santa Fe, alongside one of their dogs.
In light of the ongoing investigation, authorities released a report outlining some of Arakawa’s final emails and online searches, indicating that she was looking into information on flu-like symptoms before her passing.
A separate report from the local health department included an environmental assessment which noted signs of rats throughout many structures on the late actor’s property.
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Bodycam footage released in March
Arakawa succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) around February 11, according to a pathologist.
This disease, which can be contracted through exposure to rodents, presents flu-like symptoms, headaches, dizziness, and severe respiratory distress, as reported by investigators.
Evidence of rodents was found in several outbuildings on the property, and a live rodent, a deceased rodent, and nests were located in three garages.
Live traps were reportedly also discovered on the premises.
No definitive link has yet been established between the rodent presence and the hantavirus that led to Arakawa’s death.
Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa’s residence in Santa Fe. Pic: AP
Recent internet searches and emails
Arakawa had open browser tabs showing she was actively researching medical conditions related to COVID and flu-like symptoms.
In an email to her masseuse, she noted that Hackman had awoken on February 11 with flu-like symptoms, prompting her to reschedule her appointment for the following day “out of an abundance of caution.”
Authorities are anticipated to release additional information shortly, including redacted police body camera footage.
The release of these materials came as a result of a recent court ruling after the Hackman estate and family sought to keep the documents confidential, citing their right to privacy.
Pic: Ralph Dominguez/MediaPunch/IPX
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The two-time Oscar winner was suffering from advanced Alzheimer’s disease at the time of his passing due to heart disease.
It is believed he may have been alone for approximately a week with his wife’s body after her death.
Dr. Heather Jarrell, the chief medical examiner for New Mexico, stated that Arakawa is thought to have passed away around February 11.
What is HPS?
HPS, or hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, is a respiratory illness caused by hantaviruses, which are transmitted by various rodent species.
This rare disease is predominantly found in the western United States, particularly in New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado, and Utah.
The New Mexico Department of Health reports that hantaviruses are spread through contact with saliva, droppings, and urine from infected rodents, most commonly the eastern deer mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus) in North America.
The virus can often be transmitted through the air while cleaning areas where rodents have been present, or through consuming food contaminated by mouse droppings.
As Dr. Jarrell explained, the virus is not spread from person to person.
The fatality rate is estimated to be between 38% and 50%, with no known cure, treatment, or vaccine available. However, early diagnosis can improve survival odds.
