Brian Hickerson's lawyer says investigation into Hayden Panettiere's death continues

Brian Hickerson, who had an on-and-off relationship with actress Hayden Panettiere, broke his silence after her death in Greenville, South Carolina. His attorney, Sloan Ellis, told media outlets that the case is still under investigation and that police have confirmed there were no signs of foul play.

"Hayden's death remains under investigation, and it is important to allow that investigation to proceed. As has been publicly reported, police confirmed there were no signs of foul play," Ellis said.

Ellis added that out of respect for Panettiere’s family and the ongoing inquiry, no further comment will be made. The Greenville Police Department declined to comment, stating it follows standard procedure of reviewing findings from the coroner’s office before determining whether a criminal investigation is warranted.

The DEA has been notified and is assisting local authorities. Police conducted a welfare check at a residence linked to Hickerson and his brother Zach on the day of the actress’s death, but no one answered the door.

Panettiere was found unresponsive on August 16 and was pronounced dead after unsuccessful resuscitation attempts. An initial autopsy reported no trauma contributing to her death. Police records indicate Hickerson and his brother called 911 after discovering her, and Hickerson later provided a bag of medication that the actress had reportedly been taking.

Hickerson, a South Carolina native who previously worked in real estate and had a minor acting role, had faced multiple domestic-violence charges related to his relationship with Panettiere. He pleaded no contest to two felony counts in 2021, with other charges dismissed. A recent Los Angeles court hearing on August 13 denied his request to reduce the remaining felony counts.