Police department closes its investigation into Hayden Panettiere’s death

GREENVILLE, S.C. (WHNS/Gray News) - The Greenville Police Department said it has officially closed its investigation into the death of Hayden Panettiere.

Police said Panettiere’s death has been ruled accidental based on the medical examiner’s determination and the findings of the investigation.

Panettiere, 36, died from an accidental overdose involving multiple prescription medications and fentanyl, according to findings previously released by the Greenville County Coroner’s Office.

Toxicology testing determined the cause of death to be the toxic effects of fentanyl, 4-ANPP, alprazolam, methocarbamol and quetiapine. An autopsy showed no signs of contributing trauma.

On Aug. 16, Panettiere was found unresponsive inside an apartment in Greenville, where she had been temporarily staying. Dispatchers received a 911 call reporting a woman in cardiac arrest at approximately 1:51 p.m. She was pronounced dead at 2:32 p.m.

Her on-and-off boyfriend Brian Hickerson and his brother Zach Hickerson were at the apartment where she died.

The coroner’s office had previously closed its case after the cause and manner were established. Police said at the time their independent investigation remained open while detectives continued to follow leads.

Panettiere was best known for her roles in the TV shows “Heroes” and “Nashville” as well as films such as “Ice Princess” and the “Scream” franchise.

Panettiere published a memoir in May called “This Is Me: A Reckoning.” In the book, she detailed her childhood, time in the limelight and struggles with alcohol, opioids and postpartum depression.

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If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse or addiction, help is available. You can call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357.