Archive · 23 Sep 2026
Coroner Rules Hayden Panettiere Death Accidental After Fentanyl Toxicity
Hayden Panettiere was an actor known for Heroes, Nashville and the Scream movies.
She died on August 16 at age 36.
Officials said several drugs caused toxic effects in her body.
The drugs included fentanyl and prescription medicines.
The coroner called her death an accident.
Investigators said there were no injuries or signs that someone else caused her death.
She was found unresponsive at a residence in Greenville, South Carolina.
An acquaintance made the emergency call, while other reports said Brian Hickerson and his brother Zach found her.
Panettiere had previously spoken publicly about alcohol, drug use and mental health.
Hayden Panettiere died on August 16 at age 36, five days before her 37th birthday.
The Greenville County Coroner’s Office attributed her death to the toxic effects of fentanyl, 4-ANPP, alprazolam, methocarbamol and quetiapine.
Officials ruled the manner of death an accident and reported no signs of trauma, foul play or suspicious circumstances.
Panettiere was found unresponsive at a temporary residence or apartment in Greenville, South Carolina; reports identify an acquaintance as the 911 caller and Brian Hickerson and Zach as those who found her.
Known for Heroes, Nashville and the Scream films, Panettiere had publicly discussed struggles with alcohol, drugs and mental health.
- Who
- Hayden Panettiere, an actor known for Heroes, Nashville and the Scream films.
- What
- She died from the toxic effects of fentanyl, 4-ANPP, alprazolam, methocarbamol and quetiapine; officials ruled the death accidental.
- When
- She died on August 16, five days before her 37th birthday; the ruling was reported on September 22.
- Where
- She was found unresponsive at a temporary residence or apartment in Greenville, South Carolina.
- Why
- The Greenville County Coroner’s Office attributed her death to the toxic effects of multiple drugs.
- Cause of death
- Toxic effects of fentanyl, 4-ANPP, alprazolam, methocarbamol and quetiapine
- Manner of death
- Accident
- Age
- 36
- Date of death
- August 16
- Investigation
- No signs of trauma, foul play or suspicious circumstances were reported
- Location
- Temporary residence or apartment in Greenville, South Carolina
- Emergency response
- An acquaintance reportedly placed the 911 call
- Public disclosures
- Panettiere had discussed struggles with alcohol, drugs and mental health
