Gene Hackman's final autopsy report reveals key details leading to his death

A final autopsy report for actor Gene Hackman has been released two months after he was found dead at his home in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Citing the official report by the Office of the Medical Investigator in New Mexico, Fox News Digital reported that Hackman’s system showed trace levels of acetone, which is consistent with prolonged fasting.

Per the outlet, the Oscar-winning star’s toxicology test showed acetone levels at 5.3 mg/dL. The test elaborated that acetone, a chemical solvent, is “a product of diabetic- and fasting-induced ketoacidosis as well as a metabolite following isopropanol ingestion.”

Essentially, it suggested that Hackman might not have eaten for an extended period at the time of his passing. It is worth noting that normal acetone levels in blood are up to 0.3 mg/dL.

Authorities discovered the bodies of Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, on February 26 after responding to a 911 call from maintenance workers. While they found no obvious signs of foul play, the condition of the remains indicated they had been dead for several days. This prompted an investigation into their deaths.

Gene Hackman's final autopsy report revealed a history of “congestive heart failure”

According to Fox News Digital, Gene Hackman’s final autopsy report revealed the actor's "history of congestive heart failure” and “severe chronic hypertensive changes, kidneys.” Noting his history of severe heart disease and related surgeries, the report added he had a “bi-ventricular pacemaker” implanted in April 2019. Further, it stated that he showed “neurodegenerative features”, a common symptom of Alzheimer's disease.

These reiterated the previous findings, New Mexico Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Heather Jarrell disclosed during a press conference last month. At the time, she announced that Gene Hackman died of cardiovascular disease, with his Alzheimer's being a “significant contributory factor.” She also noted that he likely died around February 18, which was the last day the pacemaker recorded his heartbeat.

The autopsy highlighted that the Behind Enemy Lines star’s carbon monoxide levels showed less than 5% saturation, which was well within the normal range. It added that Gene Hackman tested negative for hantavirus.

During the press conference in March, Dr. Jarrell revealed that Betsy Arakawa died of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), a rare lung infection that spreads through contact with infected urine, feces, and saliva of animals, especially rats.

Cause of death for Gene Hackman’s wife Betsy was Hanta Virus, Pulmonary Syndrome
Actor Gene Hackman died of heart disease#US pic.twitter.com/v8VMHZxW8y

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Last month, TMZ obtained a copy of an environmental assessment conducted by the New Mexico Department of Public Health on the couple’s property. The document revealed it was infested with rodents, with officials finding dead rats, droppings, and nests all around the property.

Notably, their primary residence showed no signs of rodent activity inside. Officials also discovered live rat traps set across the outbuildings, suggesting that the couple was aware of the infestation.

According to Page Six, during the news conference, Dr. Jarrell explained there was no way to determine the exact date and time of the couple’s passing but noted that Betsy Awaraka likely died a week before Gene Hackman. elaborated that, given the Royal Tenenbaums actor’s mental state, it was “quite possible” he didn’t know his wife was dead.

There have been no other updates about the development.

Gene Hackman was 95 at the time of his death. Meanwhile, his classical pianist wife was 65. The Hackmans are survived by their respective families.