Multiple dead rodents and nests were found throughout the New Mexico residential property where Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Hackman died, according to CNN, citing records from the New Mexico Department of Public Health.

The two-time Oscar winner, 95, and the classical pianist, 65, died seven days apart from each other before their bodies were discovered in February. 

It was determined that Betsy died of natural causes linked to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome caused by hantavirus, a virus that is transmitted via rodent droppings and urine.

Hackman died several days later from a combination of severe heart disease, high blood pressure and Alzheimer’s disease.

Rodent feces were found in three detached garages, two casitas and three sheds during a homesite environmental assessment conducted in March, reports CNN.

A live rodent, dead rodent and a rodent nest were also found in the three garages at the property.

Risk assessment testing was carried out on March 5 by staff with the New Mexico Department of Health. Part of the testing was to ensure that investigators, first responders and family members who still frequented the Sante Fe Summit home were safe following the hantavirus discovery. 

New Mexico State Public Health Veterinarian Erin Phipps reported that risk exposure in the Hackmans’ primary residence was low. According to the report, the primary residence had no signs of rodent activity and was clean, per CNN.

However, the report found that rodents had access to eight other buildings on the property. There were also rodent sightings in two vehicles, as well as live traps elsewhere on the property. 

PEOPLE has reached out to the New Mexico Department of Public Health for comment.

Gene and Betsy’s bodies were found in the home along with their deceased dog Zinna.

The couple’s dog was crated in a closet just a few feet away from Betsy. Two more of their dogs were still alive, found roaming around on the large estate. 

Reports of hantavirus are relatively rare, but are fatal in up to 42% of cases in New Mexico, Phipps previously said. At the time, the veterinarian said there have been less than 10 cases of hantavirus in the state in the last five years.

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The couple married in 1991, and were last pictured together in March 2024. The actor, who won Oscars for his performances in The French Connection and Unforgiven, retired from Hollywood in 2004 to live a quiet life with his wife in Santa Fe.