Gene Hackman and his wife die under tragic circumstances, it has been revealed

A medical examiner revealed on Friday that Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman, who was well-known for his compelling roles in Unforgiven and The French Connection, died of natural causes almost a week after his wife’s passing.

Days of conjecture about the adored Hollywood star are over with his passing.

On February 26, emergency personnel found the 95-year-old Hackman and his 65-year-old wife, Betsy Hackman, dead in their New Mexico residence. Heather Jarrell, chief medical examiner for the New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator, stated that Alzheimer’s was a contributing role in Hackman’s death, which was caused by hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.

Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare lung disease brought on by contact with contaminated mouse droppings, claimed his wife’s life.

Both carbon monoxide poisoning and foul play were ruled out by investigators. Betsy may have died on February 11, but Hackman’s pacemaker data indicates he most likely died around February 18.

First responders discovered Hackman fully clothed in another room, Betsy’s body in the bathroom with strewn-about pills, and the door unlocked. Authorities hypothesized that because of his advanced Alzheimer’s, he might not have been aware that his wife had passed away. Two of their dogs were still alive, but one was also discovered dead.

Two-time Academy Award winner Hackman’s career was based on emotionally charged performances that mirrored his challenging childhood. Despite his early 2000s acting retirement, his work has left a long cinematic legacy and continues to inspire.