Hayden Panettiere’s Neighbor Describes Alleged Abuse, Gurney Incidents Before Actress’ Death

A neighbor of Hayden Panettiere says she saw the actress being taken from her Los Angeles apartment on a gurney by firefighters twice during her troubled relationship with Brian Hickerson.

Mia Terrazas, who still lives in the same West Hollywood apartment complex, told Page Six that the incidents happened on July 29, 2023, and January 16, 2024. She said Panettiere appeared to have “bright red spots” and bruises and that Hickerson was with her both times. Terrazas’ daughter, Vileena Koneru, said she also witnessed the incidents.

Terrazas said she often heard what sounded like hostile arguments from Panettiere’s apartment. She also recalled hearing Panettiere tell Hickerson in an elevator, “Just leave me alone! Just stop!”

Hickerson has a documented history of domestic violence allegations involving Panettiere. In 2021, he pleaded no contest to two felony counts of injuring a spouse or cohabitant. He was sentenced to 45 days in jail, four years of probation and domestic violence classes. Panettiere was granted a five-year protective order, which expired in April 2026.

Terrazas said she repeatedly contacted authorities after seeing Hickerson at the apartment complex while the protective order was active. She also said residents received notices in August 2025 warning that Hickerson was trespassing on the property.

Panettiere and Hickerson had an on-and-off relationship beginning in 2018. Panettiere later described being trapped in a cycle of abuse, saying she sometimes feared being alone more than remaining in an abusive relationship. Hickerson has acknowledged that he was abusive toward her and said he regretted his behavior.

Panettiere, 36, died in South Carolina after traveling there with Hickerson in August 2026. Police and the coroner initially reported no signs of foul play or trauma contributing to her death. Hickerson’s brother said Brian administered Narcan and performed CPR with him after finding Panettiere unresponsive. The coroner’s investigation remains ongoing while toxicology results are awaited.

Hickerson said through his attorney that the death remains under investigation and urged people to allow authorities to complete their work. Panettiere’s representative said the family was confident that the investigation would ultimately bring answers.