Brother of Hayden Panettiere's boyfriend arrested after bar altercation in South Carolina

Zach Hickerson, the sibling of Brian Hickerson—who has been linked to actress Hayden Panettiere—was arrested on Sept. 12 after police said he appeared highly intoxicated and was involved in a dispute at the Wild Wing Cafe in Greenville, South Carolina. Authorities detained several patrons, including Brian Hickerson, and charged Zach with disorderly conduct. He was released from the Greenville County Detention Center on a $257.50 personal recognizance bond.

After his release, Zach declined to discuss the bar incident but addressed rumors surrounding his and his brother's involvement in Panettiere’s death in August. He expressed frustration with the speculation, saying it was “super frustrating…that people believe them and then they attack as a result of the rumors.”

According to reports, the brothers had been drinking at the venue for hours before an argument erupted, during which Brian allegedly threw a bar stool. Video obtained by media outlets shows a bartender shouting, “Let him go!” as Brian was escorted out.

The brothers were present when Panettiere was found unresponsive on Aug. 16 at an Airbnb in Greenville. Zach told reporters that he called 911, administered Narcan with his brother, and performed CPR until emergency responders arrived. No charges have been filed against either brother in connection with her death, and the investigation remains ongoing. The Greenville County Coroner’s Office reported that an autopsy found no signs of trauma and noted cardiac arrest at the scene. Federal investigators, including the Drug Enforcement Administration, are also reviewing the case.

"Hayden's death remains under investigation, and it is important to allow that investigation to proceed," said Brian’s attorney, Sloan Ellis.

The incident adds to a series of legal issues involving Brian Hickerson, who has faced multiple domestic-violence charges in the past.