The Greenville Police Department has ruled the death of actress Hayden Panettiere accidental, closing its investigation into the 36-year-old’s overdose on August 16.
Police announced the conclusion on Wednesday, stating the determination was based on the medical examiner’s report and investigative findings. The statement confirmed Panettiere’s death was accidental, ending a local probe that had included participation from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA).
Panettiere was found unresponsive at a residence in Greenville, South Carolina, where emergency responders attempted resuscitation. Despite advanced cardiac life support measures, she was pronounced dead at the scene, according to the Greenville County Coroner’s Office.
Medical Findings Confirm Accidental Overdose
Last month, the coroner’s office determined Panettiere’s death resulted from an accidental drug overdose, listing fentanyl, Xanax, and several other substances in her system. No signs of trauma were reported. The medical examiner’s findings provided the basis for the police department’s final ruling.
The DEA had joined the local investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death, though it remains unclear whether the federal agency has concluded its involvement. The BBC’s U.S. media partner CBS News previously reported that authorities, including the DEA, were examining the case.
Key Figures and Scene Details
According to a police report obtained by CBS News, Panettiere’s on-again, off-again boyfriend Brian Hickerson and his brother Zach were present at the time of her death. The Hickersons made the 911 call that summoned first responders to the apartment.
Authorities stated in prior updates that a preliminary investigation found no signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances. The Greenville Police Department did not provide additional details about the ongoing federal investigation or potential next steps in a public statement.