A medical investigation into the death of Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman has revealed that he likely passed away one week after hantavirus claimed the life of his wife, Betsy Arakawa, according to Variety.

The investigation into the couple's deaths, which were initially deemed “suspicious” in a late last month search warrant, has been updated by New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator Chief Medical Examiner Heather Jarrell. Jarrell's report indicates that Hackman, aged 95, succumbed to cardiovascular disease, with Alzheimer’s also contributing to his death.

It is believed that Arakawa, aged 65, died on February 11, 15 days before her and Hackman’s bodies were discovered in their New Mexico home. The CDC describes hantavirus as a “family of viruses which can cause serious illnesses and death,” primarily spread by rodents like mice and rats.

Sheriff Adan Mendoza provided further details in a recent news conference, stating that security camera footage showed Arakawa visiting a local Sprouts market and CVS on the day of her death. She also had a conversation with a massage therapist that same day. Hackman’s pacemaker recorded its final event on February 17, indicating he died one week after Arakawa. The couple, along with their deceased dog, were found in separate rooms with no evidence of a gas leak, and subsequent autopsies showed negative results for carbon monoxide.

The news of Hackman and Arakawa’s deaths sent shockwaves through the film community when it spread on February 27. Hackman, celebrated for his roles in films such as Superman, The French Connection, Unforgiven, and many others, won two Oscars during his illustrious career. He retired from acting in 2004, a decision influenced by his doctor's advice to avoid stressing his heart, as he told Empire.

For a deeper dive into Hackman’s cinematic legacy, explore our list of his 20 best films.