Hayden Panettiere's death is currently under investigation, with police in Greenville, South Carolina, revealing that an acquaintance placed the 911 call. The actress, best known for her roles in Heroes and Nashville, passed away at the age of 36.
Police Statement on Death
The Greenville Police Department said officers, accompanied by EMS personnel, responded to a report of an unresponsive female at around 1:50 p.m. on Sunday, August 16. Upon arrival, medical assistance was administered, but Panettiere was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The statement continued: "The case is under investigation by the Greenville Police Department in conjunction with the Greenville County Coroner’s Office. The preliminary investigation has not indicated any signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances. An acquaintance of Ms. Panettiere placed the 911 call."
Family's Heartbreaking Tribute
Her father, Skip, confirmed her death on Monday, August 17, in a statement that read: "It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden. She was an incredible light and a force of nature who brought immeasurable love and joy to all who knew her - and to the millions who watched her onscreen."
He also asked for privacy as the family processes the loss. Panettiere's publicist, Kasey Kitchen, confirmed that an investigation is ongoing, adding: "We should know more tomorrow." No official cause of death has been announced.
Career and Legacy
Panettiere began acting at a young age, with her breakthrough role in Remember the Titans (2000). She played Claire Bennet in Heroes and Juliette Barnes in Nashville for six seasons. Her film credits include Ice Princess, Bring It On: All Or Nothing, and Scream 4 and Scream VI.
Her younger brother, Jansen, died in February 2023 at 28 from an enlarged heart. Hayden had previously spoken of the devastating loss, saying it felt like a piece of her soul died when he passed.
