Heartbreaking new details have emerged following the post-mortem of Gene Hackman’s wife, two months after her tragic death from a rat-borne virus.
The autopsy revealed that the concert pianist had fluid build-up in her chest, and her lungs were heavy and congested. The report, unveiled on Tuesday, indicated that the 65-year-old musician’s vessels, which supplied blood to the heart and body, had hardened.
The couple, aged 95 and 65, were discovered dead and partially mummified in their Santa Fe, New Mexico mansion in February.
It has since been disclosed that Ms Hackman succumbed to Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) – a severe rat-borne virus – in their bathroom days before her husband’s demise.
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Officials have now released new information about the woman’s lungs and vessels following the autopsy analysis. It is believed that the pianist, who was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, was exposed to rat droppings in the couple’s garage and outbuildings.
Hantavirus is a rare but potentially fatal disease spread by infected rodent faeces, reports the Express.
The autopsy report stated that Ms Hackman tested negative for COVID-19 and flu, and showed no signs of trauma. Her carbon monoxide levels were within normal range, and she tested positive for caffeine and negative for alcohol and intoxicating drugs.
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Her carbon monoxide levels were within a normal range. The iconic actor’s wife tragically passed away around February 12 due to respiratory complications from Hantavirus, as reported by New Mexico police.
However, it is possible that Mr Hackman, who was battling advanced Alzheimer’s disease, may not have been cognisant of his spouse’s demise.
The couple, who exchanged vows in December 1991, had been in a relationship for seven years prior to their marriage. Mr Hackman, famed for his portrayal of Lex Luthor in three Superman films, was previously wedded to Faye Maltese until their separation in the late 1980s.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
