Brian Hickerson's statement on Hayden Panettiere's passing

Brian Hickerson, the on-and-off partner of the late actress Hayden Panettiere, has issued his first public statement. Speaking through his attorney, Hickerson expressed the importance of allowing the ongoing investigation into Panettiere's death to proceed.

The statement emphasized that police have confirmed no signs of foul play. It also conveyed that no further comments would be made out of respect for Panettiere's loved ones and the ongoing investigation.

Earlier, a police report indicated that Hickerson and his brother were present at the South Carolina apartment where Panettiere died. Paramedics were observed performing CPR on the unresponsive actor.

Panettiere's cause of death has not yet been determined, though an autopsy reportedly found no signs of trauma. Police have stated that their preliminary investigation has not revealed any indications of foul play or suspicious circumstances.

Her family had previously voiced concerns about Hickerson. Panettiere's mother described efforts to distance her daughter from him, suggesting he was not a positive influence.

Panettiere, known for her roles in "Heroes" and "Nashville," had a tumultuous relationship with Hickerson, which previously involved a domestic violence case. Hickerson had pleaded no contest to felony charges related to injuring Panettiere.

In her memoir, released recently, Panettiere wrote about her journey toward forgiveness for Hickerson, expressing a desire for him to acknowledge his wrongs.

The dispatch audio mentioned "overdose" and "cardiac arrest" around the time of her passing. The Greenville County Coroner's Office has stated the investigation remains active.