The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is focusing on text conversations between actress Hayden Panettiere and her alleged drug dealer as part of its investigation into her death. A source close to the investigation told TMZ that the messages contain "a slew of messages about drugs."
The DEA believes Panettiere, 36, died on August 16 after consuming an oxycodone pill that was laced with fentanyl. According to TMZ, she allegedly took several drugs purchased from the dealer during a flight from Los Angeles to South Carolina the day before her death. The DEA is awaiting toxicology results to determine the next steps in the investigation.
In a statement, a representative for Panettiere said, "The investigation is still ongoing. Law enforcement has not disclosed who they are targeting, but I am told the case is complex. We hope to have more answers soon."
Panettiere was found unresponsive in a Greenville, South Carolina, Airbnb by Zach Hickerson, the brother of her boyfriend Brian Hickerson, on August 16. A police report indicated that Panettiere was in possession of a "bag of medication" at the time of her death. Zach Hickerson stated that his brother performed CPR and administered Narcan after discovering Panettiere.
Earlier in September, Brian Hickerson was detained by police following an altercation at a bar in Greenville, during which he reportedly shouted about Panettiere's death. He was later released without charges.