Greenville police close investigation into Hayden Panettiere's death

The Greenville Police Department has closed its investigation into the death of Hayden Panettiere. Officials stated that the death was ruled accidental based on the medical examiner's determination and the department's findings.

Panettiere, 36, died from an accidental overdose involving multiple prescription medications and fentanyl. Toxicology testing identified fentanyl, 4-ANPP, alprazolam, methocarbamol, and quetiapine as the cause. An autopsy showed no signs of contributing trauma.

On Aug. 16, Panettiere was found unresponsive in a Greenville apartment where she was staying temporarily. Dispatchers received a 911 call reporting cardiac arrest at 1:51 p.m. She was pronounced dead at 2:32 p.m. Brian Hickerson, her on-and-off boyfriend, and his brother Zach Hickerson were present at the location.

The Greenville County Coroner's Office had previously closed its case once the cause and manner were established. Police said their independent investigation remained open while detectives followed leads. That work is now complete.

Panettiere was known for roles in the television shows Heroes and Nashville, as well as films including Ice Princess and the Scream franchise. She published a memoir titled This Is Me: A Reckoning in May. In the book, she detailed her childhood, her time in the limelight, and her struggles with alcohol, opioids, and postpartum depression.