Additional details have been released by South Carolina authorities following the tragic passing of actress Hayden Panettiere, who died on Sunday, August 16 at a residence in Greenville at age 36.
According to police and media reports, emergency medical services were dispatched to the Judson Mill Lofts apartment complex shortly before 2 p.m. local time following an emergency call reporting an unresponsive female. Officials confirmed that Panettiere’s on-again, off-again partner, Brian Hickerson, and his brother, Zach Hickerson, were both present at the scene when first responders arrived. According to reports from TMZ, Zach Hickerson discovered the Heroesand Nashville star unresponsive in the living room while Brian was asleep in a separate room, prompting the immediate 911 call.
On-scene personnel administered emergency medical procedures, but Panettiere was pronounced deceased at 2:32 p.m. Law enforcement sources noted that Brian Hickerson cooperated with responding officers at the scene, providing a bag of Panettiere’s prescription medications to investigators.
Following the completion of an autopsy by the Greenville County Coroner’s Office, officials confirmed on Tuesday, August 18 that Panettiere’s remains have been formally released to a local mortuary as her family prepares private arrangements. While official toxicology reports remain pending, law enforcement previously confirmed that preliminary evaluations indicated no initial signs of foul play.
The late actress, who was just days away from celebrating her 37th birthday, leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of television, film, and vocal performances, along with her 11-year-old daughter, Kaya. Heartfelt tributes from former co-stars, industry peers, and global fans continue to pour in as the entertainment community remembers her bright light and immense talent.
