Police will investigate Hayden Panettiere's death after claims that she died from an overdose to see if any criminal conduct was involved.
Police investigation launched
The Greenville PD are said to be looking to speak to her boyfriend Brian Hickerson, who was at the address when she died. Panettiere was known for her roles in Heroes and Nashville, with her death at just 36-years-old shocking Hollywood.
In a tribute from her family, they wrote they would remember her as an 'incredible light' while fellow stars called her 'astonishing' and 'talented'.
Toxicology results pending
The toxicology results of the autopsy are still pending but emergency services were called out to the house for a woman in cardiac arrest. One law enforcement source told TMZ that this investigation was triggered because 'Hayden's death was unexpected', citing her young age. They added that the police are doing a parallel investigation with the coroner to determine cause and manner of death.
Cops reportedly showed up at the family home of her boyfriend, who was asleep in another room when she was found by his brother Zach. Panettiere died on August 16 while temporarily staying at a property in Greenville, South Carolina. She had reconciled with Brian, 37, after their turbulent relationship, during which they had been on and off for several years.
Family speaks out
Her estranged mum Lesley Vogel spoke out for the first time since Panettiere's death, revealing the family had been trying to 'get rid' of Brian. Her mum continued: 'I think Hayden was an amazingly talented person in so many departments and I think young people who grow up in the entertainment industry — it is a struggle and it's a very challenging industry and it's not unusual for them to sadly find the wrong path.'
According to reports citing a police incident summary, Zach was described as 'very emotional' as emergency workers attempted to save the actress. TMZ has separately reported, citing sources, that Zach discovered Panettiere unresponsive in a chair in the living room before the brothers called emergency services. It was said at the time that Brian had been asleep in the bedroom, remaining stoic until her death was confirmed by first responders.
The initial emergency call reportedly concerned a suspected overdose, while naloxone – also known by the brand name Narcan and used to reverse opioid overdoses – was allegedly discovered at the scene. Brian and Zach have not publicly commented on Panettiere's death.
