Brian Hickerson is breaking his silence following the death of Hayden Panettiere, asking the public to allow authorities to continue their investigation into the actress’ passing.
Hickerson, Panettiere’s former and most recent boyfriend, issued a statement through his attorney following the 36-year-old actress’ death Sunday, Aug. 16.
Brian’s attorney, Sloan Ellis of the Ellis Hinton law firm, told TMZ that Panettiere’s death is still being investigated.
“Hayden’s death remains under investigation and it is important to allow that investigation to proceed,” the attorney said.
The statement continued, “As has been publicly reported, police confirmed there were no signs of foul play.”
It concluded, “Out of respect for Hayden’s loved ones and the ongoing investigation, there will be no further comment at this time.”
What We Know So Far
The statement comes as another federal agency has reportedly become involved in the investigation.
According to reports, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration has joined authorities examining Panettiere’s death. The outlet reports that DEA agents are “assisting the parallel death investigations already underway,” alongside the Greenville Police Department and Greenville County Coroner’s Office.
Panettiere was found unresponsive at an apartment in Greenville, South Carolina, on Aug. 16.
According to previously released information, EMS personnel attempted lifesaving measures, but Panettiere was pronounced dead at the scene.
911 dispatch audio referenced a possible “overdose” and CPR being performed.
Narcan was also reportedly found inside the apartment. The drug is used to rapidly reverse an opioid overdose.
The Greenville County Coroner’s Office has said Panettiere’s official cause and manner of death remain pending additional testing.
An autopsy found no signs of trauma that would have contributed to her death, according to officials.
Hickerson Was With Her When She Passed
Hickerson was reportedly inside the apartment when Panettiere was found unresponsive.
According to a police report, his brother, Zach Hickerson, discovered Panettiere and alerted emergency responders. Brian was reportedly sleeping in another room at the time.
The police report also states that officers spoke with two men at the residence and that Panettiere’s boyfriend showed them a bag containing medications she was taking.
Brian was photographed outside in South Carolina on Wednesday, Aug. 19, marking his first reported public appearance since news of Panettiere’s death became public.
Zach was also photographed earlier in the week while picking up food.
Police were additionally seen visiting the Hickerson family home on the morning of Aug. 19. However, outlets said it was not connected to Panettiere’s passing.
Panettiere and Brian had a complicated, on-again, off-again relationship that included allegations of domestic violence, which the actress addressed in her memoir, “This Is Me: A Reckoning.”
Panettiere was best known for her roles as Claire Bennet on “Heroes” and country singer Juliette Barnes on “Nashville.”
She also appeared in films including “Remember the Titans,” “Scream 4” and “Scream VI.”
Panettiere began acting as a child, appearing on soap operas including “One Life to Live” and “Guiding Light” before becoming a household name.
Friends and fans continue to mourn her tragic passing.
