Law enforcement officials in South Carolina have officially concluded their investigation into the death of American actress Hayden Panettiere. The 36-year-old performer, known for her roles in Heroes and Nashville, was discovered unresponsive at a local residence on 16 August.
The Greenville Police Department issued a formal statement confirming that the case is now closed.
Officials based their decision on the findings of the medical examiner, which categorized the death as accidental.
Last month, the Greenville County Coroner’s Office revealed that Panettiere died due to the toxic impact of multiple drugs in her system, including fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, alongside Xanax, methocarbamol, and quetiapine. The coroner also found methocarbamol – a prescription muscle relaxant – and quetiapine – an anti-psychotic medication used to treat certain mental health conditions.
Investigation and Official Findings
- Cause of death: Accidental overdose from fentanyl, Xanax, methocarbamol, and quetiapine.
- Police status: Greenville Police Department investigation officially concluded.
- Medical examiner finding: No signs of trauma contributing to the fatality.
- Initial response: Emergency responders arrived to find the actress in cardiac arrest.
While local authorities have finalized their review, the status of a separate probe involving the US Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) remains unclear.
The DEA had been reported as participating in the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death. A representative for the Greenville Police Department declined to comment on the scope of the federal agency’s involvement when reached for inquiry.
Records from the day of the incident indicate that Brian Hickerson, the actress’s former partner, and his brother, Zack, were present at the residence when emergency services arrived. Panettiere had previously been transparent with the public regarding her personal history with substance abuse issues.
Important Details
- Watch: Hayden Panettiere on her career and growing up in the spotlight.
- Intense pressure: Why child stars fall into addiction, drugs at their fingertips.
- From child actor to Scream star, in pictures: Her life and career.
