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Hayden Panettiere's Ex Accused of Drug Use Before Her Death
22 Aug
Summary
- Ex-partner accused of drug use days before actress' death.
- Drug use alleged during hearing to expunge domestic violence convictions.
- Investigation into actress' death includes DEA involvement.
Brian Hickerson, former partner of actress Hayden Panettiere, faced accusations of continued drug use just three days prior to her death on August 16, 2026. Court records revealed that prosecutors opposed his petition to expunge domestic violence convictions from 2021. During a hearing on August 13, 2026, prosecutors contended that Hickerson appeared "quite high on what appears to be a stimulant" during a recent interview.
These allegations followed two arrests in August 2025 for being under the influence of a controlled substance, with charges confirmed by the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department. Hickerson's expungement request was ultimately denied by a judge. Panettiere was found unresponsive at a South Carolina residence; her autopsy revealed no signs of trauma, and the cause of death is pending further investigation.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is reportedly investigating Panettiere's death. Brian Hickerson's attorney released a statement emphasizing that police confirmed no signs of foul play and urged respect for the ongoing investigation.
