DEA Joins Probe Into Hayden Panettiere's Death | Wilmington News

Wilmington News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Aug 20, 2026 · 1m

Actress Hayden Panettiere, 36, died at her South Carolina home amid an ongoing investigation involving the DEA and local police. Found unresponsive with her on-again, off-again boyfriend Brian Hickerson and his brother Zack, authorities are still determining if drugs or alcohol played a role — though Brian showed officers a bag of medication she was reportedly taking. The coroner was on scene, but cause and manner remain undetermined. Known for roles in “Heroes,” “Nashville,” “Ice Princess,” and “Scream,” Panettiere leaves behind her daughter Kaya and a legacy of heartfelt performances. The…