The circumstances surrounding the deaths of Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, have taken an unexpected turn after a doctor cast doubt on the official timeline of Arakawa’s passing.
Dr. Josiah Child, a New Mexico physician, revealed that he received a phone call from Arakawa on Feb. 12—one day after the estimated date of her death, according to the medical examiner.
Doctor Claims Arakawa Was Alive After Official Death Date
Dr. Child, who runs Cloudberry Health, told the Daily Mail that Arakawa had contacted his office on Feb. 12. She had originally scheduled an appointment weeks earlier but had canceled on Feb. 10, stating her husband was unwell.
Despite canceling, she later called again to reschedule. Dr. Child’s team booked her for an afternoon visit, but she never arrived.
“She showed no signs of respiratory distress and was not seeking care for hantavirus-related symptoms,” Child explained. The medical examiner, however, determined that Arakawa died of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare respiratory disease linked to rodents.
Adding to the mystery, Arakawa was reportedly seen running errands at a grocery store, pharmacy, and pet shop on the afternoon of Feb. 11—the day officials say she passed away.
Timeline of Events Raises More Questions
Authorities discovered Hackman and Arakawa in their Santa Fe home on Feb. 26. Investigators believe Arakawa died about a week before Hackman, who suffered from heart disease and advanced Alzheimer’s.
Hackman, a legendary actor known for The French Connection and Unforgiven, reportedly died on Feb. 18, which aligns with the last recorded activity of his pacemaker.
The new revelations have led to speculation about the accuracy of the medical examiner’s timeline. If Arakawa had indeed called the doctor on Feb. 12, it could mean she was alive longer than previously believed.
Authorities have not released further statements regarding the discrepancy, but the unexpected development adds another layer of intrigue to the already tragic case.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Jaja’s career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including Business Times and Brigada. As a news editor, she covered a wide range of beats, including business, economy, cryptocurrency, and personal finance. Additionally, she has successfully managed teams of writers producing content on gaming, technology, and entertainment.
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