Gene Hackman's wife Betsy Arakawa's internet searches days before her death reveal telling details
SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO: Gene Hackman's wife, Betsy Arakawa, searched the internet for information on Covid-19 symptoms and breathing techniques days before her tragic death from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, the Daily Mail reported on Tuesday, April 15.
Arakawa, 65, and Hackman, 95, were discovered dead and partially mummified in their Santa Fe, New Mexico, home on February 26, after maintenance and security workers showed up at the property and alerted the police.
The actor is believed to have died of heart disease a week after his wife. He may not have been aware of Arakawa's death because of advanced Alzheimer’s disease.
Betsy Arakawa's internet search history
According to the publication, open bookmarks on Betsy Arakawa’s computer on February 8 and the morning of February 12 indicated that she was looking up medical conditions related to Covid-19 and flu-like symptoms. Her searches reportedly included inquiries on whether Covid-19 could cause dizziness or nosebleeds.
Officials have stated that the hantavirus disease that led to the classical pianist's death is known to have a wide range of related symptoms, such as flu-like illness, headaches, dizziness, and severe respiratory distress.
On February 11, Arakawa emailed her masseuse that Hackman had woken up with flu-like symptoms and rescheduled her appointment as a precaution. The following day, she searched for a health care provider in Santa Fe.
Investigators are also reviewing phone records and security camera footage to establish the exact circumstances of the celebrity couple's death. The details of the investigation are being made public following a recent court order that mandated any depictions of the deceased couple would have to be blocked from view.
New Mexico Health Department discovered rodents around Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa's home
The New Mexico Department of Health released a report following the environmental assessment of the couple's property, which stated that rodent excrement was found in several areas surrounding the building.
A living rodent, as well as dead rodents and their nests, were found in eight detached outbuildings on the property, making it a "breeding ground" for the hantavirus, according to experts.
Two vehicles on the estate also had evidence of rodents, and traps laid out in the building suggested it was a long-time issue. However, the assessment also revealed that the primary residence did not have any signs of rodent infestation.
