One year ago, renowned actor Gene Hackman and his wife, pianist Betsy Arakawana, died in their New Mexico home under mysterious circumstances. Betsy, who was 65 at the time, suffered from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, which she contracted due to rodent infestations in their mansion. Gene, 95, who had been battling Alzheimer's disease, passed away shortly after Betsy. The couple had lived together in their secluded estate for 35 years, and the nature of their deaths has raised several questions regarding their living conditions and final wishes.

Following their deaths, a survey of the estate revealed concerning findings, including rodent droppings in a number of outbuildings, highlighting the unsanitary conditions they were living in. This has fueled speculation about whether they received adequate care and support in their final years, especially given Gene's advanced age and health issues. The large fortune left behind, estimated at £62 million, further complicates matters, as it leads to questions about how their wealth will be managed and the fate of the estate moving forward.

The ongoing mystery surrounding the Hackman estate not only pulls at the heartstrings of fans and admirers of the actors but also serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by elderly couples, particularly those dealing with severe health challenges. As fans await more clarity on the situation and the handling of the estate, it raises broader concerns about elder care, health, and the impact of isolation on well-being, particularly in affluent but possibly neglected areas such as the Hackman estate in Santa Fe.