Hayden Panettiere’s Greenville Death Officially Ruled Accidental

Police Close Their Investigation

The Greenville Police Department announced Wednesday that its investigation into Panettiere’s death had ended. The department said the accidental ruling followed the medical examiner’s determination and the investigation’s findings.

Police had earlier said their preliminary work had revealed no evidence of foul play or suspicious circumstances. Authorities, including the Drug Enforcement Administration, had examined the circumstances surrounding her death.

Coroner Cited Fentanyl Overdose

Last month, a South Carolina coroner confirmed that Panettiere died from an accidental drug overdose involving fentanyl. The coroner’s office also reported that there were no signs of trauma.

The official determination now reported by Greenville police is that her death was accidental. The article gives no further details about the investigation’s findings.

Responders Went To Greenville Home

Emergency crews were called to a residence where Panettiere had been staying in Greenville, South Carolina, on the afternoon of Aug. 16. She was 36. The Greenville County Coroner’s Office said responders used advanced cardiac life support measures, but Panettiere was pronounced dead at the residence.

Hickerson Brothers Were Present

A police report obtained by CBS News said Brian Hickerson, Panettiere’s on-again, off-again boyfriend, and his brother Zach were at the scene. The report said the brothers called 911, bringing first responders to the apartment.