A representative for Hayden Panettiere has strongly criticized online speculation and rumors surrounding the actress's recent death, emphasizing that there is significantly more to the story than what is publicly known.
Panettiere was discovered deceased on August 16 in an Airbnb in Greenville, South Carolina. She had traveled to the location with her on-again, off-again boyfriend, Brian Hickerson, who is a native of the state. Both Hickerson and his brother, Zach, were present at the scene when Panettiere was pronounced dead. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has since joined the investigation into the circumstances of her death.
In a statement released to Us Weekly, Panettiere's representative asserted that many individuals who were not close to the actress are exploiting her death to spread gossip and conjecture about a situation they do not fully comprehend. This behavior, the statement noted, is deeply disrespectful to Panettiere's memory and to those who loved her and are grieving her loss.
The representative extended an invitation for anyone possessing verifiable information that could assist the ongoing investigation to come forward. They specifically requested that individuals with legitimate information contact law enforcement directly rather than engaging in public speculation on social media.
The statement further indicated that critical details concerning the star's death have not yet been revealed and that Panettiere's inner circle is cooperating with authorities to ensure the truth emerges and justice is served. "There is much more to this story than what is currently being discussed publicly, and those closest to Hayden are actively cooperating with the ongoing investigation," the representative stated.
Brian Hickerson's brother, Zach, also broke his silence to provide an account of the actress's final moments. According to Zach, he and Brian discovered Panettiere unconscious in their Airbnb. While Zach was on the phone with 911, Brian administered Narcan, a medication used to reverse opioid overdoses. They then jointly performed CPR until emergency services arrived.
Zach Hickerson described the group as having plans for lunch and indoor golfing on the day of Panettiere's death. He recounted that after attending church, he attempted to contact Panettiere and Brian but received no response, initially assuming they were asleep. Upon arriving at the rental property and gaining entry, he found Panettiere unresponsive.
"I immediately called 911 and Brian gave her Narcan. We then jointly performed CPR while 911 was on speaker until Fire and EMS arrived," Zach stated. He expressed being heartbroken and devastated by Panettiere's death, describing her as one of his closest friends. He urged an end to the assumptions and accusations circulating about her passing.
Authorities confirmed that a post-mortem examination was completed and revealed no signs of trauma on Panettiere's body. Further investigations are underway to determine the cause of death. A Greenville police officer responding to the residence noted that the patient did not appear to have any obvious physical reasons for being unresponsive. Emergency workers declared Panettiere dead at 2:31 p.m. on Sunday.
Narcan nasal spray was reportedly found at the South Carolina property. Panettiere and Brian Hickerson had reportedly flown to South Carolina from Los Angeles the day before her death. Hickerson is a Greenville native, though the specific purpose of their visit remains unclear.
Panettiere's ex-fiancé, Wladimir Klitschko, with whom she shared a daughter, paid tribute to her on what would have been her 37th birthday. Klitschko shared a photo of the actress and reflected on celebrating her life and spirit, thanking fans and friends for their support. He encouraged a focus on love, kindness, and forgiveness.
Brian Hickerson addressed Panettiere's death through his attorneys, stating that the investigation is ongoing and that police have confirmed no signs of foul play. His legal team indicated no further comment would be made out of respect for Panettiere's loved ones and the investigation.