The death of actress Hayden Panettiere has shocked Hollywood. The 36-year-old died on Sunday in Greenville, South Carolina. More details about the circumstances surrounding her death have now emerged.
According to a police report obtained by NBC News, her former partner, Brian Hickerson, and his brother, Zach Hickerson, were at the apartment complex while emergency responders were attempting to resuscitate Panettiere. Authorities said the actress had been staying at the residence temporarily. The exact cause and manner of death remain under investigation.
Hayden Panettiere Was Found Unresponsive at the Residence
According to the medical examiner’s office, an emergency call was received at approximately 1:50 p.m. reporting a possible cardiac arrest. Emergency responders found Panettiere unresponsive and immediately began advanced resuscitation efforts. Despite their efforts, she could not be revived.
She was pronounced dead at 2:32 p.m. An autopsy has since been performed. According to NBC News, it found no signs of injuries that would have contributed to her death. However, the cause and manner of death remain pending additional examinations.
Brian and Zach Hickerson Were at the Scene
The heavily redacted police report states that the first officer to arrive spoke with Zach Hickerson, who was described as “very emotional.”
According to the report, Brian Hickerson did not visibly react until after emergency responders had officially pronounced Panettiere dead.
Brian also showed officers a bag containing medications that Panettiere had been taking. At this stage, it remains unclear whether medication, drugs, or alcohol played any role in her death. No such connection has been officially established.
Investigators Seize Video and Other Evidence
Authorities have taken additional steps as the investigation continues, including securing surveillance footage and preparing a supplementary report. A search warrant was also executed at the scene.
The officer who responded was wearing a body camera during the emergency, although that footage has not been released. Police and the medical examiner’s office are continuing their respective investigations, with the final findings still pending.
Hayden Panettiere Spoke Publicly About Abuse in 2020
The circumstances have drawn additional attention because of Panettiere’s turbulent history with Brian Hickerson. Their relationship ended amid allegations of domestic violence, and Panettiere later spoke publicly about the abuse she said she had experienced.
In 2020, she addressed the situation publicly, saying: “I am coming forward with the truth about what happened to me in the hope that my story will empower others in abusive relationships to get the help they need and deserve.”
Panettiere also discussed the experience in her memoir, explaining that she had been reluctant to involve police for a long time. Hickerson pleaded not guilty to charges related to the case in 2021 and was later placed on probation.
