Investigators found dead rats and rat droppings throughout the Santa Fe estate

New details have emerged regarding the tragic deaths of Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, raising serious health and safety concerns about their living conditions. According to investigation reports released to the public, the couple was discovered in a shocking state of disarray within their Santa Fe, New Mexico home on February 26. Betsy succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, believed to have been contracted through exposure to rat droppings in their home, while Gene passed away a week later, suffering from heart disease exacerbated by Alzheimer’s disease. Authorities reported that the home was littered with clutter, food residue, and an abundance of dead rats and droppings. The police body cam footage depicted this chaotic environment, unveiling a lifestyle that, despite the couple's fame, appeared to be deeply troubled by health risks. It remains unclear how long the couple had been living in such conditions leading to Betsy’s illness and Gene’s decline. Moreover, the investigation revealed unusual aspects surrounding their deaths. Investigators were initially concerned about possible carbon monoxide poisoning or natural gas leaks in the home, but testing did not confirm these fears. Instead, Betsy’s last internet searches derived from concerns about flu-like symptoms—as she sought information about COVID-19 and related health issues—while health reports indicate she may have exhibited early symptoms of the hantavirus infection before her eventual deterioration. As human interest and celebrity news intersect, the full implications of this case speak to larger issues of health, isolation, and the effects of aging, particularly for someone as iconic as Gene Hackman, who had publicly acknowledged his health struggles in recent years. The couple's choice to live away from Los Angeles and the spotlight raises questions about lifestyle decisions facing many retirees. This unsettling case underscores the need for heightened awareness regarding health standards and safety in homes—even for individuals of significant means. Though the medical examiner ultimately ruled the deaths as stemming from natural causes, the puzzling circumstances continue to spark speculation and concern.