Two months after the passing of Gene Hackman, a deeper insight into his health condition has been unveiled. An official autopsy report, released by the Office of the Medical Investigator in New Mexico and secured by Fox News Digital, has shed light on the health battles faced by the double Oscar-winner. Found deceased at his Santa Fe home alongside his wife, Betsy Arakawa, on February 26th at the age of 95, Hackman's medical history revealed a cocktail of health issues: a "history of congestive heart failure," "severe chronic hypertensive changes affecting his kidneys," and Alzheimer's disease.
In stark contrast to his wife, who was previously diagnosed with hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a severe respiratory illness contracted through rodent urine, droppings, and saliva, Hackman tested negative for the virus. The 65-year-old Betsy Arakawa succumbed to this illness.
According to the autopsy report, as detailed by Fox News Digital, Hackman exhibited "severe atherosclerotic and hypertensive cardiovascular disease," marked by coronary artery stents, a bypass graft, and a previous aortic valve replacement. The report further noted "remote myocardial infarctions involving significant portions of the left ventricular free wall and the septum." An examination of his brain unveiled microscopic evidence of Alzheimer's disease at an advanced stage.
In March, authorities confirmed that both Hackman and his wife had passed away from natural causes in their New Mexico home, with her demise occurring on February 11th and his seven days later. Initially, the 'Superman' actor's death was attributed to hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), with Alzheimer's disease playing a significant contributing role.
The medical investigator emphasized that Hackman was in the "advanced stages" of Alzheimer's, suggesting that "it is plausible he was unaware" of his wife's passing. The official also revealed that no food was found in Hackman's stomach. The actor's final toxicology report, sourced from the New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator, indicated traces of acetone, a product of diabetic and fasting-induced ketoacidosis, aligning with prolonged fasting, as reported by Fox News Digital.
Earlier this month, Hackman and Arakawa were laid to rest in a private ceremony attended by their children—son Christopher, 65, and daughters Elizabeth, 62, and Leslie, 58—alongside other cherished family members and friends.
