Autopsy Reveals Gene Hackman's Heart Issues, Fasting Signs

The final autopsy reports for Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman confirm he died of natural causes related to 'hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease' and had a history of congestive heart failure and advanced Alzheimer's disease. The reports indicate Hackman had significant heart issues, a bi-ventricular pacemaker, and prior heart surgeries, and also showed signs of prolonged fasting before death, evidenced by high acetone levels consistent with diabetic- and fasting-induced ketoacidosis. His wife, Betsy Arakawa, died days earlier from hantavirus, and Hackman's advanced cognitive decline likely left him unable to care for himself or their pets, one of which died from starvation and dehydration. The couple's home was found in disarray, further suggesting Hackman's helplessness following his wife's death. Hackman tested negative for hantavirus and carbon monoxide poisoning, and it is believed he wandered the house alone after his wife's passing. The tragedy highlights both Hackman's declining health and the devastating sequence of events that led to both deaths.