US actor Gene Hackman died of heart disease, while his wife, Betsy Arakawa, succumbed to hantavirus one week earlier.
Santa Fe police confirmed both deaths, ruling out foul play after discovering their bodies on February 26.
Authorities conducted immediate tests for carbon monoxide poisoning, but results came back negative.
Arakawa’s Death Linked to Hantavirus Infection
Betsy Arakawa, 65, was found in the bathroom with an open prescription bottle and pills scattered on the counter.
Investigators determined that she died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare and often fatal disease spread by rodent droppings.
Hantavirus cases typically rise in spring and summer, with exposure occurring in homes, sheds, or poorly ventilated spaces.
Hackman’s Death Attributed to Heart Disease and Alzheimer’s
Gene Hackman, 95, was discovered in the home’s entryway. His death was attributed to heart disease, with Alzheimer’s as a contributing factor.
Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza announced the findings during a news conference alongside state fire and health officials.
Investigators retrieved personal items from the couple’s home, including a monthly planner and two cellphones, as part of the case review.