Online theories about Hayden Panettiere’s untimely death have prompted the actress’ representative to ask the public to stop treating speculation as fact.
In an exclusive statement published by Us Weekly on Tuesday, August 25, Panettiere’s rep condemned commentary from outside the Nashville star’s inner circle.
Why Is Hayden Panettiere’s Rep Condemning Online Speculation?
“Many people who were not close to Hayden are using her death as an opportunity to fuel gossip and speculation about a situation they knew very little about,” the statement read.
“It is deeply disrespectful to her memory and to those who knew and loved her and are actively grieving this tremendous loss.”
The warning followed several public claims about the circumstances surrounding Panettiere’s death.
Billy Bush shared a video Monday, August 24, featuring a neighbor who alleged she saw a vehicle outside the property, heard someone speaking inside and later noticed tape covering parts of a door camera.
A source close to the family told the outlet that the cameras were connected to the phone of Panettiere’s on-and-off boyfriend, Brian Hickerson, and said that was why tape had been placed over them. Authorities have not connected the camera to Panettiere’s death.
What Did Hayden Panettiere’s Rep Ask Fans to Do?
Getty“If you have legitimate information that could be helpful, please contact law enforcement rather than turning to social media to speculate publicly about something you do not fully understand,” the statement continued.
“There is much more to this story than what is currently being discussed publicly, and those closest to Hayden are actively cooperating with the ongoing investigation to help ensure that the truth comes to light and that justice is properly served,” the statement concluded.
What Have Authorities Revealed About Hayden Panettiere’s Death?
Panettiere died Sunday, August 16, at age 36 while temporarily staying at a residence in Greenville, South Carolina; her father confirmed the news in a statement shared with ABC News.
The Greenville County Coroner’s Office said a 911 call reported a cardiac arrest, but emergency personnel were unable to revive her.
According to ABC News, the coroner’s office and Greenville City Police Department launched a “parallel investigation.” An autopsy found “no signs of trauma” that would have contributed to her death, according to TK. Her cause and manner of death remain pending further investigation and additional testing.
How Did Brian Hickerson Respond to the Investigation?
GettyHickerson was at the residence when Panettiere was found unresponsive. The pair were first linked in 2018 and had an on-and-off relationship marked by his previous domestic violence arrests.
Through his attorney, Hickerson said investigators should be allowed to complete their work without further speculation.
“Hayden’s death remains under investigation, and it is important to allow that investigation to proceed,” his statement to Us Weekly read. “As has been publicly reported, police confirmed there were no signs of foul play. Out of respect for Hayden’s loved ones and the ongoing investigation, there will be no further comment at this time.”
No official cause of death has been announced.
