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Ex-Girlfriend's Abuse Claims Preceded Panettiere Incident
24 Aug
Summary
- An ex-girlfriend accused Hickerson of battery two years prior.
- Los Angeles DA sought to prove a pattern of domestic abuse.
- Panettiere's death is under investigation, no foul play found.
Brian Hickerson, 37, was accused of battery by a former girlfriend in August 2017, nearly two years before allegedly assaulting Hayden Panettiere. Court documents indicate the Los Angeles District Attorney's office sought to introduce these prior claims as evidence of Hickerson's alleged pattern of domestic violence toward women he dated.
The ex-girlfriend alleged a verbal argument escalated when Hickerson reportedly broke her cellphone. Although she did not pursue criminal charges, the DA considered the incident relevant to the case involving Panettiere. The prosecution argued this past behavior was highly probative and relevant to demonstrating Hickerson's propensity for violence.
Panettiere, 36, died in August 2026 in South Carolina. Initial reports from dispatch audio mentioned an "overdose" and "cardiac arrest." Hickerson's brother stated he administered Narcan and performed CPR before emergency services arrived. Autopsy results have shown no signs of trauma contributing to her death.
Authorities have confirmed no signs of foul play in Panettiere's death, which remains under investigation. Hickerson's attorney has stated that the investigation must be allowed to proceed without further comment out of respect for Panettiere's loved ones. Her mother has publicly expressed efforts to distance her daughter from Hickerson.
