Hayden Panettiere's Death Investigation Remains Ongoing, Representative States
A spokesperson for the late actress confirmed that toxicology results are pending, refuting premature reports about the cause of her passing.
An investigation into the death of actress Hayden Panettiere, 36, is still underway, according to a representative for the late star. The statement comes amid reports suggesting that fentanyl played a role in her passing.
Panettiere died on August 16 in Greenville, South Carolina. Authorities initially suspected a drug overdose, prompting an investigation. However, her representative clarified that the probe is ongoing, awaiting the completion of toxicology results.
"As reported yesterday by the Greenville County Coroner's Office, Hayden's death remains under investigation pending the completion of toxicology results, despite reports from some outlets stating otherwise," the statement read. "Recent reports attributed to unnamed sources are unverified hearsay and have attributed to conflicting information that continues to circulate."
The representative urged patience, stating, "While we are all eager to find closure and better understand the circumstances surrounding her passing, we must remain patient and allow the investigative process to unfold." The statement concluded, "the answers we are all seeking will come."
Earlier this week, sources told TMZ that Panettiere's Los Angeles residence was searched by DEA agents on August 25. The search was reportedly conducted to gather evidence to identify the source from whom Panettiere obtained the narcotics that led to her death.
Insiders also informed the outlet that Panettiere consumed a single pill on the day she died, which officials suspect was oxycodone laced with fentanyl. Sources indicated that the actress had a "long time drug dealer" in Los Angeles from whom she illegally obtained substances, including oxycodone.
Authorities stated that the day before her death, Panettiere had taken multiple drugs purchased in Los Angeles before flying to South Carolina, where she was discovered deceased the following day. First responders attempted resuscitation at her Greenville condo before she was pronounced dead.
Panettiere's on-again, off-again boyfriend Brian Hickerson and his brother Zach Hickerson were present at the residence. According to an official report, Brian Hickerson provided authorities with a "bag of medication" belonging to Panettiere.
Hickerson's lawyer, Sloan Ellis, previously stated on August 20 that "Hayden's death remains under investigation and it is important to allow that investigation to proceed. As has been publicly reported, police confirmed there were no signs of foul play. Out of respect for Hayden's loved ones and the ongoing investigation, there will be no further comment at this time."
Recently, Brian and Zach Hickerson were involved in an altercation with other patrons at a South Carolina cafe. An eyewitness told TMZ that the incident escalated after the brothers were heckled about Panettiere's death. Zach Hickerson later told TMZ that public misconceptions surrounding the actress's death had fueled the incident, expressing frustration over the rumors and their consequences. He indicated he would eventually address any falsehoods linked to the case.