There is a major update in the investigation into Hayden Panettiere’s passing, with her boyfriend reportedly speaking to federal investigators as authorities continue looking into the circumstances surrounding her suspected overdose.
According to TMZ, Brian Hickerson, who was inside the Greenville, South Carolina, condo when Panettiere died, has spoken with the Drug Enforcement Administration as part of the ongoing investigation.
Hickerson Has Been Staying Out of the Spotlight
Hickerson has largely remained out of the public eye since Panettiere’s death. Shortly afterward, he issued a statement through his attorney addressing the investigation.
“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. Out of respect for Hayden’s loved ones and the ongoing investigation, there will be no further comment at this time,” it read.
Now, the investigation reportedly appears to be moving in a new direction.
Sources Say They Are ‘Zeroing’ in on Someone
Sources told TMZ that local and federal authorities believe someone may have sold Panettiere drugs that could have contributed to her tragic passing. According to the outlet, identifying that person has become a central focus of the investigation.
One source described authorities as “zeroing in on a potential drug dealer.”
Investigators are also waiting for toxicology results, which could help determine what caused Panettiere’s passing.
At this point, no one has been arrested in connection with her death, and questions remain about where any drugs involved may have come from.
The Beloved Actress Passed Last Month
Panettiere died Aug. 16 at age 36. She was found unresponsive inside a short-term rental she was sharing with Hickerson in Greenville, South Carolina.
According to reports, Hickerson’s brother discovered Panettiere unresponsive while Hickerson was sleeping.
They reportedly administered Narcan, a medication used to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, but it did not revive her.
The presence of Narcan has also become part of the circumstances surrounding the investigation, although it does not by itself establish what caused Panettiere’s death.
Panettiere had previously spoken publicly about her struggles with substance abuse.
She detailed her history with drugs and alcohol in her memoir, giving fans insight into some of the challenges she faced throughout her life.
The investigation remains ongoing, and the toxicology results could provide investigators with important information about Panettiere’s final hours.
Panettiere was best known for her roles in “Heroes,” “Nashville,” and “Ice Princess,” among other projects.
Her career began when she was a child, and she became a familiar face on television and in movies before her death.
While authorities have not announced an arrest or publicly identified a suspected dealer, the reported involvement of the DEA marks another development in a case that has continued to raise questions since Panettiere’s death.
For now, investigators are still working to establish exactly what happened. The toxicology findings and information gathered from those who were with Panettiere before she died could ultimately help determine the circumstances surrounding the actress’ death.
