Hayden Panettiere’s Death Is Now Being Investigated For Possible Criminal Conduct
The investigation into Hayden Panettiere’s sudden death has taken a new turn.
Law enforcement officials are now investigating whether there could have been criminal conduct connected to the actress’ death, according to a new report from TMZ.
Police Are Taking A Closer Look
Panettiere, 36, was found unresponsive at a residence in Greenville, South Carolina, on August 16.
Emergency responders were called to the scene after she was found in cardiac arrest. Despite efforts to revive her, she was pronounced dead.
A preliminary autopsy reportedly found no signs of trauma, and the official cause of death has not yet been determined.
Now, however, TMZ reports that investigators are looking more closely at the circumstances surrounding her death and whether criminal conduct may have played a role.
Her Death Had Initially Not Been Considered Suspicious
The development comes after authorities previously indicated that there were no initial signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances.
That information was included in earlier reporting following Panettiere’s death, while officials continued waiting for additional testing and toxicology results.
The latest investigation does not mean that authorities have concluded that a crime occurred.
Instead, investigators appear to be examining the circumstances more closely before reaching a final determination.
Brian Hickerson Was At The Scene
Panettiere’s former on-and-off boyfriend, Brian Hickerson, was at the apartment when she was found unresponsive, according to a police report released this week.
His brother, Zach Hickerson, was also present and reportedly helped alert emergency responders.
The police report said Zach was visibly emotional as paramedics attempted to revive Hayden, while Brian did not appear emotional until she was pronounced dead.
Brian also reportedly directed officers to a bag containing medications Hayden had been taking. The specific medications were not disclosed in the report.
There has been no public accusation that Hickerson caused Hayden’s death.
The Cause Of Death Remains Unknown
Earlier reports surrounding the emergency mentioned a possible overdose, while Narcan was reportedly administered at the scene.
However, those details have not established an official cause of death.
The coroner is still awaiting toxicology and additional medical findings before determining exactly what caused Panettiere’s death.
Hayden Panettiere Was Only 36
Panettiere became famous as a child actress before starring in Heroes and later becoming beloved by country music fans for her role as Juliette Barnes on Nashville.
Her sudden death at 36 has already prompted emotional tributes from former co-stars, friends and fans around the world.
Now, with investigators taking a closer look at the circumstances surrounding her death, the case is entering a new and potentially significant phase.
For now, no final cause of death has been announced, and investigators have not publicly identified anyone as responsible for her death.
