The death of actress Hayden Panettiere continues to shock fans and those close to her. The 36-year-old died on Sunday after emergency responders were called to an address in Greenville, South Carolina, where they found an unresponsive woman. Now, her former partner, Brian Hickerson, has spoken publicly for the first time.
Brian Hickerson Issues a Statement Through His Attorney
In a statement released through his attorney, Hickerson said that Panettiere’s death remains under investigation and urged people to allow the process to run its course.
“Hayden's death remains under investigation and it is important to allow that investigation to proceed,” his attorney said, according to Rolling Stone.
The statement also noted that police had reportedly found no indications of foul play. Out of respect for Panettiere’s family and because the investigation is ongoing, Hickerson’s representatives said there would be no further comments at this time.
The statement marks Hickerson’s first public reaction since the actress’s death.
Brian and Zach Hickerson Were Reportedly in the Apartment
According to TMZ, Brian Hickerson and his brother, Zach Hickerson, were reportedly at the apartment when Panettiere died. Brian was reportedly asleep in another room, while Zach allegedly found her unresponsive in an armchair.
Emergency responders attempted to revive her, but she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Hayden Panettiere’s Relationship With Hickerson Was Complicated
Panettiere and Brian Hickerson had a complicated relationship that made headlines for years. The pair began dating in 2018, separated several times, and later reconciled.
In 2020, Panettiere obtained a temporary restraining order against Hickerson following allegations of domestic violence. Their relationship remained a source of public attention in the years that followed.
