South Carolina authorities have concluded their investigation into the death of actress Hayden Panettiere, determining that her passing was accidental. The Greenville Police Department announced that, after reviewing the medical examiner’s report and conducting their own inquiry, they found no evidence of foul play.
Panettiere, 36, known for her roles in the television series "Nashville" and "Heroes," was discovered in cardiac arrest at a residence in Greenville on August 16. Officials had earlier stated that they did not consider the circumstances of her death suspicious.
The coroner’s report, made public last month, identified an accidental overdose involving multiple substances, including fentanyl, as the cause of death. Panettiere’s passing occurred shortly after she had been discharged from a rehabilitation facility.
While local police have closed their case, it remains uncertain whether federal authorities will continue their own investigation. Reports indicate that federal agents have taken personal belongings of Panettiere as part of a separate inquiry. This was referenced in a recent court filing by her former fiancé, former heavyweight boxing champion Wladimir Klitschko.
Panettiere and Klitschko share an 11-year-old daughter, Kaya Evdokia Klitschko. In 2018, amid Panettiere’s struggles with postpartum depression and addiction, Klitschko was granted full custody of their child.
Panettiere’s acting career began early, with her first appearance in a commercial at 11 months old. Over the years, she built a substantial presence on television and in film.
