Post-morten investigations have been revealed Hollywood actor Gene Hackman died of heart disease - a week after his wife Betsy Arakawa.
The couple and their dog were discovered dead at their home in New Mexico last month.
US officials believe that Ms Arakawa's death is down to a rare disease spread by infected rodent droppings, known as Hantavirus.
Gene Hackman and wife, Betsy. 1989. Credit Image: © Globe Photos/ZUMAPRESS.com)Humans can contract hantavirus by breathing in contaminated air, and symptoms can start as soon as one week, or as long as eight weeks, later. It is not transmissible from person to person.
There were just seven confirmed cases of hantavirus in New Mexico last year, and Arakawa is the only person confirmed to have contracted it in the state in 2025.
It is thought that Hackman, who was 95-years-old and suffering from Alzheimers, may not have even been aware of his wife's passing.
No use of technology
Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza said the star did not appear to use technology to communicate with anyone after Ms Arakawa died.
"At this point no, I don't know if he used cell phones or technology or emails, there's no indication of that," he said.
"So, right now no, there is no activity from Mr Hackman."
Hackman, who was widely respected as one of the greatest actors of his generation, was a five-time Oscar nominee who won the best actor in a leading role for The French Connection in 1972 and best actor in a supporting role for Unforgiven two decades later.
Main image: Actor Gene Hackman and wife Betsy Arakawa in 1986 (Image: Getty Images)
