An environmental assessment of Gene Hackman's home, conducted following the deaths of the actor and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, revealed rodent infestations in outbuildings and garages. Records obtained by CNN show that the New Mexico Department of Public Health performed a "homesite environmental assessment" on March 5th, a week after Hackman and Arakawa were found deceased at their Santa Fe home.
The assessment documented the presence of rodent feces, a live rodent, a dead rodent, and a rodent nest.
New Mexico's chief medical investigator stated on March 7th that Arakawa, aged 65, died of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, while Hackman, aged 95, died of heart disease, with advanced Alzheimer's disease contributing to his decline. Hantavirus is a rare but potentially fatal disease transmitted through contact with infected rodent droppings.
The report indicated that eight outbuildings exhibited signs of infestation, while the main house showed no signs of infestation. However, rodents, nests, and feces were observed on vehicles on the property, and live traps were found within the outbuildings.
The assessment aimed to determine the hazard level for first responders and emergency personnel. The risk level within the main residence was deemed "low."
