Hayden Panettiere died on August 16, and in the days since her passing, there has been much speculation about her final moments, as well as her relationship with her on-again, off-again boyfriend, Brian Hickerson, and his treatment of her.
Panettiere was found at an apartment complex in Greenville, South Carolina, by Brian’s brother, Zach Hickerson, who called first responders. However, Brian was also at the property. Now, their half-sister, Ashley Hickerson, is speaking about Panettiere’s relationship with Brian and revealing details about his personality and their family.
Brian Hickerson’s Sister Discusses His Relationship With Hayden Panettiere
“If I can say one thing about Brian, it’s that he is the most charismatic person and he draws you in,” Ashley told Daily Mail in an interview published on Tuesday, August 25. “I get why Hayden was with him. Brian is just the type of person who can make you laugh no matter what, and he can be fun.”
She continued, “We all have our demons. Brian was not raised that way. It wasn’t until he got into drugs that he went south.” Hickerson was arrested for punching Panettiere and sentenced to 45 days in jail in 2021.
Ashley also discussed the sadness her family experienced after Panettiere’s death. “A massive tragedy has happened,” she said. “My family is really feeling this loss as well. If I could be with them, I would. She revealed that their father was “devastated” and praised her family for being “amazing people” whom she is protective of. The Daily Mail reports that she “stressed that the violent episodes did not reflect the family in which Brian grew up.”
Hayden Panettiere’s Passing & Her Mother’s Quest for Justice
Hickerson’s attorney shared a statement to ABC News on Thursday, August 20, addressing Panettiere’s death and speculation surrounding it. “Hayden’s death remains under investigation, and it is important to allow that investigation to proceed. As has been publicly reported, police confirmed there were no signs of foul play,” the statement reads. “Out of respect for Hayden’s loved ones and the ongoing investigation, there will be no further comment at this time.”
GettyThe “Nashville” actress’ mom, Lesley Vogel, has been outspoken since her tragic passing. Although they were estranged at the time of her death, Vogel is dedicated to getting justice for Panettiere.
In an interview with the Daily Mail, published on August 22, she said, “There is infinite sadness, but this is not the time for me to be weak. I don’t have the luxury right now of being weak. I have too much to do for Hayden. When I’m done with that, then I will give myself the luxury to mourn – deeply mourn.”
Vogel continued, “I’m not saying I’m not grieving now. I am, and I do have my moments. But the bigger picture right now is I have to stay strong. I don’t have an option.”
Panettiere’s cause of death has not been officially announced as the coroner awaits the results from a toxicology report. However, an autopsy has been completed, and her remains have been sent to a funeral home.
