Newly released police records have shed light on Betsy Arakawa’s tragic Google search history just 48 hours before her death on February 12.
Betsy Arakawa, a classical pianist and wife of Hackman for more than three decades, was discovered deceased in their residence in New Mexico on February 26.
Upon the arrival of police at the scene, their dogs led them to her body. It was soon discovered that Hackman had also died in a different room of the house, along with another of their dogs.
A detailed investigation followed, revealing that Arakawa and Hackman died at separate times.
It is believed that Arakawa’s death occurred on or around February 12, while Hackman, known for his role in Behind Enemy Lines, is thought to have died on February 18.
The investigation concluded that the couple had died due to different causes. Hackman’s death was attributed to severe heart disease, with Alzheimer’s disease as a contributing factor.
On the other hand, Arakawa’s death was due to Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), a rare infectious disease associated with rodents.
This disease can present flu-like symptoms and potentially progress into a severe lung condition.
On February 10, two days before her estimated death, Arakawa searched for terms like ‘can Covid cause dizziness?’ and ‘flu and nosebleeds’ on Google.
The following day, it is believed that Arakawa canceled a massage appointment, citing Hackman’s ‘flu/cold-like symptoms’, although he tested negative for COVID-19.
She also ordered oxygen canisters from Amazon for ‘respiratory support’, and police noted she made several calls to a health clinic for medical treatment, which she never received.
In the two months since Arakawa’s death, three additional Americans have succumbed to the virus in a small California town.
Dr. Tom Boo, the Public Health Officer for Mono County, remarked in a recent statement: “A third case of Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), each fatal, is both tragic and alarming.”
He continued: “We don’t clearly know where this young adult contracted the virus. There was no evidence of mouse activity in the home, though we did see some mice at the workplace, not uncommon for indoor spaces in Mammoth Lakes this time of year.”
“There were no identified activities in the weeks preceding the illness that would have increased exposure to mice or their droppings. We’ve been aware of this case for some time, but testing confirmation took a while.”
Dr. Boo concluded by expressing concern: “Three cases in a short time frame are worrisome, especially this early in the year. Historically, Hantavirus cases appear later in spring and summer. While we haven’t seen additional suspect cases in about a month, the increased activity remains a concern.”