Actor Gene Hackman Cause of Death Revealed, Autopsy Reveals Shocking Details

A newly released autopsy report confirms that the cause of death of Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman was his heart disease. Additional findings indicate he was in the later stages of Alzheimer’s disease and may have gone without food for an extended period.

The 95-year-old actor had a long history of cardiovascular problems, including congestive heart failure, an aortic valve replacement, and an irregular heartbeat. He had received a pacemaker in April 2019 to manage these conditions.

The report also noted that Hackman had less than 5% carbon monoxide saturation in his blood—within normal limits—and tested negative for hantavirus, a rare but deadly illness spread through rodent droppings.

Hackman’s wife, Betsy Arakawa, is believed to have died at their home on February 11 from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, though her official autopsy findings have not yet been released.

Toxicology tests showed that Hackman had no alcohol or recreational drugs in his system, but a low level of acetone was detected—typically a sign of extended fasting.

It is believed Hackman may have survived for about a week after Arakawa’s death, potentially unaware of her passing due to his cognitive decline. His pacemaker registered abnormal heart activity on February 18, which medical officials have identified as the probable date of his death.

Earlier in the investigation, authorities found evidence that Arakawa had been searching online and making calls for information about flu symptoms and breathing techniques in the days leading up to her death.

Law enforcement also released video footage detailing the investigation process, which included interviews with individuals connected to the couple and additional searches of their residence in early March. Officers returned to the home to recover Arakawa’s laptop and search for further evidence related to the case.

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