**Title:** Gene Hackman’s Property Linked to Hantavirus Investigation
**Meta Description:** Rat nests and dead rodents found on Gene Hackman’s estate raise concerns after his wife Betsy Arakawa’s death from hantavirus.
**URL Slug:** gene-hackman-hantavirus-investigation
**Headline:** Investigation Unfolds on Gene Hackman’s Estate Following Hantavirus-Related Death
Gene Hackman’s estate has come under scrutiny following the tragic death of his wife, Betsy Arakawa, from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS). The couple’s partially mummified remains were discovered on February 26 in separate rooms of their Santa Fe home, alongside one of their dogs. Arakawa, 65, reportedly developed HPS around February 11, a disease transmitted through exposure to rodents, which can cause flu-like symptoms and severe respiratory distress.
Authorities have since released a report detailing Arakawa’s last emails and internet searches, indicating she was researching flu-like symptoms prior to her death. The local health department’s environmental assessment revealed evidence of rodent activity throughout multiple buildings on the property, including rat nests and both live and dead rodents found in several garages. Live traps were also located on the estate.
While the investigation continues, there has been no confirmed link between the rodents found on the property and the hantavirus that claimed Arakawa’s life. In her last communications, Arakawa expressed concern for Hackman, who had reportedly woken up with flu-like symptoms on February 11, prompting her to reschedule an appointment with her masseuse “out of an abundance of caution.”
As the investigation progresses, authorities are expected to release additional information, including redacted police body camera footage. This release follows a court order after the Hackman estate sought to keep the records sealed, emphasizing the family’s right to privacy.
Dr. Heather Jarrell, New Mexico’s chief medical examiner, stated that Arakawa is believed to have passed away around February 11. Gene Hackman, now 95, was reportedly in the advanced stages of Alzheimer’s disease at the time of his wife’s death and may have been alone with her body for approximately a week.
**What is HPS?**
Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) is a rare respiratory disease caused by hantaviruses, which are typically carried by various rodent species. Symptoms can include flu-like signs, headaches, dizziness, and severe respiratory issues.
**FAQ Section:**
**What are the symptoms of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome?**
Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome symptoms include flu-like signs such as fever, muscle aches, headaches, dizziness, and severe respiratory distress.
