The representative for actress Hayden Panettiere has strongly refuted "gossip and speculation" following her recent death, emphasizing that the public does not yet know the full story as investigators work to uncover the facts.

"Many people who were not close to Hayden are using her death as an opportunity to fuel gossip and speculation about a situation they knew very little about," Panettiere's representative said in a statement shared with US Weekly. "It is deeply disrespectful to her memory and to those who knew and loved her and are actively grieving this tremendous loss."

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has joined the Greenville Police Department in the investigation into Panettiere's death. Her representative urged anyone with accurate information to come forward, stating, "If you have legitimate information that could be helpful, please contact law enforcement rather than turning to social media to speculate publicly about something you do not fully understand."

Panettiere's team suggested that crucial details surrounding her passing have yet to be disclosed. "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 to help ensure that the truth comes to light and that justice is properly served," the statement read.

Panettiere died on August 16 at an apartment in South Carolina. Preliminary autopsy results indicated no signs of trauma contributed to her death, according to the Greenville County Coroner's Office. The circumstances surrounding her death remain under active investigation.

Brian Hickerson, who had an intermittent relationship with Panettiere, was reportedly present at the residence when she was found unresponsive, according to a police report obtained by Fox News Digital. Hickerson and his brother, Zach, called 911 after discovering Panettiere. Authorities interviewed both brothers and executed a search warrant at the home.

Hickerson reportedly traveled with Panettiere from Los Angeles the day before she was found unresponsive. The couple had a brief separation in 2022 but resumed their relationship the following year. Hickerson's brother confirmed to police that they were in a relationship at the time of Panettiere's death.

Officers were provided with a bag of medication Panettiere was allegedly taking by Hickerson.