Gene Hackman's Final Autopsy Report Reveals Tragic End for Hollywood Legend

Final autopsy reports have revealed the heartbreaking circumstances surrounding the deaths of Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa, who were found deceased in their Santa Fe, New Mexico home in February.

According to documents released by the New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator, Hackman, 94, died from a combination of severe heart disease, kidney failure, and Alzheimer's Disease. The report indicated the acclaimed actor had likely been fasting for days prior to his death, with examiners finding high acetone levels in his system consistent with prolonged fasting.

The autopsy detailed multiple health issues affecting Hackman in his final days, including "congestive heart failure, severe chronic hypertensive changes in kidneys, and neurodegenerative features consistent with Alzheimer's Disease."

In a tragic twist, investigators determined that Hackman's wife, Betsy Arakawa, had died approximately one week before him from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare but serious respiratory disease transmitted by rodents. Reports indicated there was evidence of rodent infestation at their property.

The circumstances suggest Hackman, already suffering from advanced Alzheimer's, may have been unable to seek help after his wife's passing, leading to his own deterioration and death. The Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office investigation provided insight into the couple's final days through surveillance footage and other evidence gathered at the scene.

The revelations bring a somber conclusion to the life of Hackman, a two-time Academy Award winner known for his roles in classics such as "The French Connection," "Unforgiven," and "The Royal Tenenbaums," who had lived a private life in retirement since his last film in 2004.