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Rodent Infestation Found at Gene Hackman’s Residence After Wife’s Hantavirus Death
Following the death of Betsy Arakawa from hantavirus, health authorities discovered significant signs of rodent activity on actor Gene Hackman’s New Mexico property. A subsequent environmental assessment, conducted after Arakawa’s passing, revealed widespread evidence of a rodent infestation across multiple outbuildings on the estate.
Extensive Rodent Evidence Uncovered
The environmental evaluation, carried out in March, a week after the couple’s deaths, documented rodent droppings in several structures. These included three garages, two casitas, and three sheds. The official report from the New Mexico medical investigator’s office detailed further findings within the detached garages: a live rodent, a deceased rodent, and a rodent nest.
Report Details Infestation Extent
While not included in the initial summary following the discovery of Hackman and Arakawa at their residence on February 26, the full assessment, initially obtained by TMZ, revealed the comprehensive scope of the rodent problem on the premises.
Hantavirus Confirmed as Cause of Death
Autopsy findings confirmed that Arakawa, aged 65, succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome. This rare illness can be contracted by humans through exposure to rodents, specifically their feces, saliva, and urine.
Hackman’s Death from Unrelated Causes
Hackman, aged 95, passed away several days after Arakawa. His death was attributed to complications arising from hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, compounded by advanced Alzheimer’s disease.
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Health Department Risk Assessment
Prior to the detailed findings, the New Mexico Department of Health conducted a preliminary risk assessment on March 5. This action was part of the death investigation protocol, aiming to ensure the safety of first responders and family members who had accessed the property.
Initial Assessment Focused on Main Residence
The initial evaluation concluded that the risk of exposure within the main house was minimal, with no indications of rodent activity inside. However, this preliminary report did not encompass the newly disclosed information regarding the condition of the external buildings.
Outbuildings Identified as Rodent Habitats
According to the report, all eight additional buildings and two vehicles on the property were accessible to rodents. Investigators noted the presence of live traps in the outbuildings, presumably intended for rodent control.
Hantavirus: A Serious Health Concern in New Mexico
Hantavirus, although uncommon, carries a significant 41% fatality rate among those infected in New Mexico. Notably, New Mexico records the highest number of hantavirus cases in the United States.
Preventing Hantavirus Exposure
Health officials advise that individuals undertaking cleaning of potential rodent habitats, whether in residential settings or outdoor environments, should avoid direct contact. Wearing protective gear is recommended when handling such areas.
Hantavirus Symptoms and Lack of Specific Treatment
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that hantavirus initially presents with flu-like symptoms, which may take up to two months to appear. Currently, there is no specific cure or treatment available for hantavirus infection or its associated symptoms.