Authorities in Greenville, South Carolina, are currently investigating the death of actress Hayden Panettiere, who was 36. The Greenville Police Department confirmed that officers and emergency medical responders were dispatched to the Judson Mill Lofts at 701 Easley Bridge Road at approximately 1:51 p.m. on August 16 following a 911 call from an acquaintance.
Upon arrival, emergency personnel attempted to provide medical assistance, but Panettiere was pronounced dead at the scene. Sgt. Jonathan Bragg of the Greenville Police Department stated that the preliminary investigation has revealed no evidence of foul play or suspicious circumstances. Both the local police and the Greenville County Coroner’s Office are continuing their inquiry, though an official cause and manner of death have not yet been determined.
While investigators have not released further details, 911 dispatch audio obtained by TMZ indicated that first responders discussed a potential overdose and cardiac arrest during the emergency call. The actress’s representative officially confirmed her passing on Sunday, August 16.
In a statement shared by her representative, her father, Skip Panettiere, expressed the family’s profound grief. He described his daughter as an incredible light and a force of nature who brought immense joy to those who knew her and to the millions of fans who followed her long-standing career.
Panettiere began her professional life as a child actor, eventually securing breakout roles in projects such as NBC’s “Heroes,” “Remember the Titans,” “Ally McBeal,” and Disney’s “Ice Princess.” She later gained widespread recognition for her role as a country-pop singer in more than 100 episodes of the series “Nashville.” Earlier this year, she released her memoir, “This Is Me: A Reckoning.”
Throughout her life, Panettiere was open about her personal challenges, including her struggles with opioid and alcohol addiction, for which she sought treatment. She also spoke candidly about her experience with postpartum depression following the birth of her daughter, Kaya, in 2014. She is survived by her daughter and her parents. Her younger brother, actor Jansen Panettiere, preceded her in death in 2023 at the age of 28.
For those in crisis or struggling with substance use, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration provides support via their helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). The report also notes that new details surrounding the death of Hayden Panettiere are emerging as authorities continue to investigate what caused the actress’ death at 36. The report also notes that here’s everything we know about her death so far. The report also notes that contributing: Anika Reed.
