Hayden Panettiere’s Rep Urges Public to Avoid Speculation as Death Investigation Continues

Hayden Panettiere’s representative is urging the public not to speculate about the circumstances surrounding the actress’s death while authorities continue their investigation.

Panettiere died Aug. 16 in Greenville, South Carolina, five days before her 37th birthday. She was found unresponsive and in cardiac arrest. A 911 call referenced a possible overdose, but the Greenville County Coroner’s Office said toxicology results could take several weeks and are needed to help determine the cause of death.

Her representative said people who were not close to Panettiere should avoid spreading rumors and urged anyone with relevant information to contact law enforcement. The representative also said there is “much more to this story” than what has been publicly reported and that those close to Panettiere are cooperating with investigators.

Paramedics performed advanced cardiac life support measures but could not revive her. A preliminary autopsy found no signs of trauma that contributed to her death.

Panettiere’s former boyfriend, Brian Hickerson, and his brother Zach were present when she died. Brian Hickerson, who had a history of domestic violence cases involving Panettiere, said through his attorney that the investigation should be allowed to proceed. His attorney also noted that police had publicly reported no signs of foul play and said there would be no further comment.

The investigation remains ongoing, and the official cause of death has not yet been determined.