Additional Coverage:
An environmental health investigation has revealed widespread rodent infestation across multiple outbuildings on the Santa Fe estate of late actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa. The New Mexico Department of Public Health conducted the assessment in March, shortly after both were found deceased, with Betsy’s death confirmed to be caused by hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), a serious illness transmitted through exposure to rodent droppings.
Inspectors discovered dead rodents, nests, and droppings throughout eight separate structures on the property-including three garages, two casitas, and three sheds. Live rodents and nests were also found in three of the garages. Additionally, signs of rodent activity were noted on two vehicles, and the presence of live traps suggested an ongoing infestation.
The department carried out a risk assessment on March 5, evaluating potential exposure risks for first responders and family members who had visited the home. Fortunately, the main residence was deemed low risk, with no evidence of rodent activity indoors.
Betsy’s passing due to hantavirus has heightened public concern, especially as the rare illness recently caused additional fatalities in Mammoth Lakes, California. Prior to her death, Betsy had reached out to a medical concierge with health concerns. Gene Hackman, who passed away from complications related to heart disease and advanced Alzheimer’s between February 17 and 18, was found alongside his wife on February 26.
Police bodycam footage released to the public shows a visibly upset groundskeeper who discovered the couple expressing his emotional connection to them, describing Betsy as “a sweetheart” and reflecting on the sadness of the situation.
Hantavirus symptoms often include severe headaches-experienced by about half of patients-and less commonly nosebleeds, which contributed to Betsy’s worries about a possible misdiagnosis. Her online activity in the days before her death reveals her attempts to understand her illness, initially suspecting COVID-19 despite negative test results. Out of caution, she even canceled a massage appointment to prevent potential spread.
The tragic circumstances surrounding the Hackmans serve as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by rodent-borne illnesses and the importance of vigilance in environments susceptible to infestation.