Public Health Assessment Reveals Rodent Infestation on Hackman Property
An environmental assessment by the New Mexico Department of Public Health has uncovered extensive evidence of rodent activity and infestation at the Santa Fe property of actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa. This assessment followed their tragic deaths in February 2025. The primary concern identified in the assessment was the presence of rodents linked to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare but severe disease contracted via direct contact or inhalation of aerosolized particles from infected rodents’ feces, urine, or saliva.
The findings detailed that rodent feces and nests were discovered across eight detached outbuildings on the sprawling multi-million-dollar estate. Specifically, three garages, two guest cottages (casitas), and three sheds were reported to have significant rodent presence. Authorities also documented the disturbing discovery of live and deceased rodents within the three garages, indicating a significant and active rodent population.
Despite the widespread infestation in outlying buildings, officials reported that the main residence itself appeared relatively untouched by rodents, categorizing it as “low-risk” regarding hantavirus exposure.
“The primary residence showed no signs of any rodent activity, though the surrounding structures exhibited extensive signs of infestation,” noted Erin Phipps, New Mexico State Public Health Veterinarian.
Health officials conducted the assessment to determine the safety risks posed to first responders and others who had entered the site following the discovery of the bodies. The presence of rodent nests and droppings raised immediate concerns about potential exposure to hantavirus among those who accessed these contaminated areas.
Chronology and Details of the Infestation Discovery
The bodies of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa were found on February 26, approximately two weeks after their deaths, raising alarm among community members and health officials. Initially, first responders suspected carbon monoxide poisoning due to concerns about a “hazardous condition” notice from the New Mexico Gas Company found inside the home, but later this was ruled out as a cause.
Following autopsies, medical examinations concluded that Arakawa had succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, while Hackman died shortly thereafter, with underlying heart conditions and Alzheimer’s disease contributing to his demise. Adding complexity to the case, a distressed German shepherd belonging to the couple was discovered alive, sitting protectively near Arakawa’s deceased body, emphasizing the unsettling nature of the scene.
Investigations revealed Arakawa actively sought symptomatic relief shortly before her death. She reportedly ordered oxygen canisters online and canceled a massage therapy appointment, highlighting Hackman’s flu-like symptoms and negative COVID test results.
“Betsy Arakawa’s email showed an active attempt to manage and understand their symptoms, demonstrating awareness and concern prior to the tragic events,” said public health spokesperson Jeremy Porter.
The report further revealed the presence of rodent droppings in the couple’s vehicles and around the estate, reflections of a possibly entrenched infestation issue. Authorities installed live traps as part of their management strategy, indicating the severity of the infestation.
Historical Context and Public Health Implications of Hantavirus
Hantavirus is a significant health concern, particularly in rural parts of the southwestern United States, where rodent populations can flourish undetected. In New Mexico, approximately 41% of those infected with hantavirus have succumbed to the disease, making public awareness and proactive rodent control critical.
The virus first gained national attention in 1993 when a sudden outbreak in the Four Corners region of the United States, including New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado, and Utah, led to multiple deaths and a heightened focus on rodent-control measures. Since then, increased surveillance and risk assessment activities by various state health departments have aimed to mitigate risks and increase public education about prevention methods, such as proper rodent cleanup techniques and safeguarding homes from infestations.
The consequences of such infestations extend beyond immediate health risks, affecting estates and legal matters significantly. Gene Hackman’s will stipulated that his estate would pass to Arakawa upon his death; however, her will contained a clause that directed their estate to charity if both spouses died within 90 days of each other, complicating inheritance issues for surviving family members.
“The estate clause adds another layer of complexity to an already tragic event, potentially impacting how property and assets are distributed after such unforeseen occurrences,” observed estate planning attorney Sonia Reynolds.
This incident may prompt increased vigilance and public discussion surrounding rodent infestation management and estate preparedness for elderly or isolated individuals.
Overall, this discovery has underscored the importance of preventative measures against hantavirus. Public health officials emphasize proper sanitation, rodent-proofing buildings, and safely cleaning rodent-infested areas to prevent exposure. The tragic circumstances surrounding Hackman and Arakawa’s deaths serve as a stark reminder of both the persistent threat posed by rodents and the crucial need for awareness and proactive health and safety policies.