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Hayden Panettiere’s Rep Says There’s ‘Much More’ To Her Death Amid Online Rumors
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Hayden Panettiere’s representative called out fans on Tuesday for using the actor’s shocking death as a chance to spread misinformation. “Many people who were not close to Hayden are using her death as an opportunity to fuel gossip and speculation about a situation they knew very little about,” the representative told Us Weekly in a statement Tuesday. “It is deeply disrespectful to her memory and to those who knew and loved her and are actively grieving this tremendous loss.” “There is much more to this story than what is currently being discussed publicly, and those closest to Hayden are actively cooperating with the ongoing investigation to help ensure that the truth comes to light and that justice is properly served,” the statement concluded. Panettiere, 36, was found in cardiac arrest minutes before she was pronounced dead at her South Carolina apartment on Aug. 16, according to the Greenville County Coroner’s Office. First responders were reportedly overheard discussing a possible “overdose” at the scene on the 911 dispatch audio, according to reports from TMZ, Page Six and People. There were apparently no signs of “foul play or suspicious circumstances” in a preliminary investigation into Panettiere’s death, the Greenville Police Department said in a statement released last week. The cause of death is still being investigated. Panettiere’s father, Skip Panettiere, confirmed her death last week in a statement to multiple outlets. “It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden,” he said. “She was an incredible light and a force of nature who brought immeasurable love and joy to all who knew her – and to the millions who watched her onscreen.” Panettiere’s on-and-off boyfriend since 2018, Brian Hickerson, and Hickerson’s brother, Zach Hickerson, were both at Panettiere’s apartment when she died, according to the Greenville Police Department. Brian Hickerson recently broke his silence on Panettiere’s death in a statement via his lawyer, Sloan Ellis. “Hayden’s death remains under investigation, and it is important to allow that investigation to proceed,” Ellis said in a statement to TMZ. “As has been publicly reported, police confirmed there were no signs of foul play.” Panettiere’s estranged mom, Lesley Vogel, mentioned Hickerson following her death and also said the actor struggled with alcohol and substance abuse. “This person in her life that we have been trying to get rid of for quite some time was with her at her death and that was Brian Hickerson,” Vogel told NBC News. By entering your email and clicking Sign Up, you're agreeing to let us send you customized marketing messages about us and our advertising partners. You are also agreeing to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.
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