Hayden Panettiere died from accidental overdose involving fentanyl, coroner's office says

Updated on: September 22, 2026 / 8:56 PM EDT / CBS News

Hayden Panettiere died from accidental overdose involving fentanyl, coroner's office says

TL;DR

  • Hayden Panettiere's death was ruled accidental by a South Carolina coroner.
  • The cause of death was attributed to the toxic effects of fentanyl, 4-ANPP, alprazolam, methocarbamol, and quetiapine.
  • Emergency responders found Panettiere unresponsive at a residence in Greenville, South Carolina.
  • Her boyfriend, Brian Hickerson, and his brother were present and called 911.
  • Brian Hickerson reportedly administered Narcan to Panettiere after she was found unconscious.
  • Authorities, including the DEA, are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding her death.
  • Panettiere had been open about her past struggles with drug and alcohol abuse.