Brian Hickerson has spoken out following the sudden death of his on-again, off-again girlfriend, Hayden Panettiere, at age 36.
The actress’s longtime partner issued a statement through his attorney as authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding her passing.
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Hickerson’s attorney, Sloan Ellis, shared the statement with TMZ, saying:
“Hayden’s death remains under investigation and it is important to allow that investigation to proceed. As has been publicly reported, police confirmed there were no signs of foul play. Out of respect for Hayden’s loved ones and the ongoing investigation, there will be no further comment at this time.”
Hickerson and his brother, Zach Hickerson, were both present at the Greenville, South Carolina, apartment where Panettiere was found unresponsive. Zach reportedly discovered the actress while Brian was asleep in another room.
Paramedics attempted CPR before pronouncing the ‘Nashville’ star dead at the scene. Authorities have said there were no signs of trauma or foul play, while the Drug Enforcement Administration has joined the ongoing investigation.
Hickerson reportedly provided officers with a bag containing medication Panettiere had been taking.
The couple’s relationship had previously made headlines amid a turbulent history that included domestic violence charges against Hickerson. In 2021, he pleaded no contest to two felony counts of injuring a spouse or girlfriend and was sentenced to 45 days in jail, four years of probation, and 52 domestic violence classes.
Just days before Panettiere’s death, a judge denied Hickerson’s request to have the felony charges reduced.
