DEA investigates Hayden Panettiere's sudden death at 36 after cardiac arrest; boyfriend found her unresponsive, meds recovered.
- August 20, 2026
AceShowbiz - Hayden Panettiere was found unresponsive in her Greenville, South Carolina apartment on a recent Sunday, prompting an investigation that now includes the Drug Enforcement Administration. The DEA’s involvement comes as authorities seek answers surrounding the sudden death of the actress, who was 36 years old.
Emergency responders discovered Panettiere in cardiac arrest and attempted resuscitation efforts, but she was pronounced dead at the scene. Early autopsy results revealed no trauma or obvious physical injuries that contributed to her passing, though officials have yet to disclose an official cause of death.
A police report indicated that Panettiere’s on-again, off-again boyfriend, Brian Hickerson, and his brother Zach were the ones who called 911 after finding her unresponsive. During the investigation, Hickerson handed over a bag containing medications believed to have been prescribed to Panettiere. Authorities also conducted a search of the residence as part of their inquiry.
Panettiere had been open about her struggles with alcohol and opioid use in the past. In the weeks leading up to her death, she spoke candidly about the difficult decisions she was making to ensure the safety and well-being of her daughter, Kaya, who lives with her father, Wladimir Klitschko. She expressed confidence that Kaya was in a good environment and having a positive life.
The investigation continues as authorities work to determine the full circumstances surrounding Panettiere’s death. She is survived by her daughter.
This article is based on reporting originally published by MediaTakeOut.