Famed actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa Hackman, tragically passed away in their New Mexico residence in February, marking a sad end for a Hollywood star and his pianist wife.

Gene Hackman was reported to have died of hypertensive atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, with Alzheimer's disease contributing, while Betsy succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, as Fox News reports, and new footage of what authorities found in their home has just been released.

The sequence of events leading to their deaths began earlier that month, as Betsy reportedly experienced health concerns that motivated her to research various illnesses online.

Her Internet search history reveals multiple queries about COVID-19 and flu-like symptoms between Fe.b 8 and 9.

Pre-death research, correspondene details revealed

On Feb. 10, Betsy explored specific symptoms like "flu and nosebleeds" and "COVID nosebleeds," in addition to queries on "Can COVID cause dizziness?" This string of searches culminated in an email she sent on Feb. 11, discussing her husband's health and recommending caution over a potential appointment.

Betsy wrote about Gene exhibiting flu-like symptoms and having a negative COVID-19 test result, leading her to postpone a planned engagement as a precaution. Despite initial concerns, the couple appeared focused on their health management.

Feb. 12 saw Betsy inquiring into more specialized topics, including "How long do the effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy last" and an establishment in Santa Fe. This inquiry may suggest an attempt to explore alternative health treatments.

Events leading up to sad discovery

As the month progressed, Betsy's digital history added more context to the troubles in their household. Furthermore, Betsy had been involved in a car accident, as noted in a Feb. 5 discussion with an acquaintance, reflecting the mounting stress faced by the Hackman family.

Despite these challenges, the full gravity of the situation only emerged upon the discovery of their remains on Feb. 26.

Video footage from the day of discovery revealed a poignant image of one of their dogs, either Bear or Nikita, faithfully protecting Betsy’s body.

Tragically, the couple was found with one deceased dog, Zinna, who is believed to have died from dehydration and starvation, alongside two dogs that managed to stay alive by accessing the outdoors through an open back door.

Revelations from police probe

The investigation posited that Gene likely lived by himself for about a week following Betsy's death. His pacemaker recorded its last activity around Feb. 18, suggesting his struggle to cope after losing his spouse.

Given these complex circumstances, the Santa Fe Sheriff's Department treated their deaths as "suspicious enough in nature" to warrant a comprehensive investigation. The need was underscored by the discovery process detailed by the Santa Fe Fire Chief.

Further elaboration from Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza clarified the institution's dual obligations to both the public and the grieving family.

Mendoza emphasized the necessity of maintaining transparency while respecting the dignity owed to the Hackmans.

Sad ending for notable couple

The report underscored Betsy’s intense online inquiry into conditions associated with COVID-19 and flu-like symptoms, adding a layer of intrigue and sadness to this tragedy, capturing both public concern and media speculation.

With the release of these findings, attention unsurprisingly shifted toward understanding the complexities behind the notable couple’s final days, as authorities balanced public requirements and respectful commemoration.

In conclusion, the investigation into the deaths of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa continues to unravel the poignant narrative of two lives deeply interwoven yet marked by profound challenges in their last days.